In a remarkable case of advanced critical care and multidisciplinary coordination, doctors successfully treated and revived a 14-year-old boy who suffered a severe high-voltage electrocution injury, resulting in cardiac arrest and life-threatening neurological complications.
Incident and Initial Response
The adolescent was brought to the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) after accidentally coming into contact with a live electrical connector wire attached to a water motor. During transport to the hospital, the child experienced cardiorespiratory arrest and underwent emergency endotracheal intubation and advanced cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) at an outside medical facility. Return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) was achieved after five cycles of CPR.
Critical Care and Multidisciplinary Approach
Upon arrival at Aster CMI Hospital, the child was admitted to the PICU in critical condition and placed on mechanical ventilation. A structured multidisciplinary post-cardiac arrest care approach with neuroprotective strategies was promptly initiated. This included sedation, seizure prophylaxis, hyperosmolar therapy, and targeted optimization of oxygenation, ventilation, and temperature control. Neuroimaging revealed a focal left frontal subarachnoid hemorrhage, which was managed conservatively. The clinical course was further complicated by neurogenic pulmonary edema and myocardial dysfunction, both of which responded well to intensive supportive management. Continuous EEG monitoring did not detect any electrographic seizures.
Recovery and Discharge
Despite the severity of the injury, the child showed progressive neurological and systemic recovery. This positive outcome is likely attributable to early resuscitation, timely intensive care interventions, and a structured strategic multidisciplinary approach. Ventilatory support was successfully weaned by day 5 of PICU admission, and the patient was discharged in stable condition on day 7 with good neurological recovery.
Expert Comments
Dr. Lalitha A V, Consultant - Paediatrics, PICU – Incharge at Aster CMI Hospital, stated: “This case highlights how timely resuscitation and structured pediatric critical care can make a life-saving difference in severe electrocution injuries. The child arrived in an extremely critical condition following cardiac arrest, and our immediate priority was stabilization and protecting the brain and other vital organs from secondary injury.”
Dr. Ananya, Consultant PICU, further emphasized: “With continuous monitoring, meticulous intensive care, and coordinated teamwork, we were able to achieve a positive neurological recovery.”
Prof. (Dr) N Karthik Nagesh, Program Director - Pediatric Centres of Excellence at Aster CMI Hospital, added: “Electrical injuries in children can rapidly affect multiple organ systems, especially the heart, lungs, and brain. This case underlines the importance of advanced PICU infrastructure, early intervention, and multidisciplinary collaboration in managing complex pediatric emergencies. The child’s recovery is extremely encouraging and reflects the strength of comprehensive pediatric critical care.”
Dr. Prashanth N, CEO of Aster Hospitals, said: “At Aster, we remain committed to delivering advanced, evidence-based emergency and critical care services for children and adults alike. The successful recovery of this young patient demonstrates the expertise of our multidisciplinary teams and the strength of our pediatric critical care capabilities. Cases like these reinforce the importance of rapid intervention, coordinated care, and access to advanced healthcare infrastructure.”
Conclusion
This case underscores the critical importance of early emergency response, post-cardiac arrest management, and coordinated multidisciplinary care in improving survival and neurological outcomes following severe electrical injuries in children. The collaborative efforts of the PICU, plastic surgery, rehabilitation, and nursing teams played a key role in the child’s recovery and successful discharge.
