From the Guidelines
Yes, a fall from a cliff can cause significant blood loss, as the mechanism of injury, including the height of the fall, can lead to severe hemorrhage from lacerations, puncture wounds, and internal injuries to organs. When someone falls from a height, they may sustain multiple traumatic injuries that can all lead to severe hemorrhage. Open fractures, where bones break through the skin, are particularly prone to causing substantial bleeding. Additionally, internal bleeding from damaged organs like the liver, spleen, or kidneys can result in rapid blood loss that isn't immediately visible. The severity of blood loss depends on the height of the fall, the landing surface, the person's position during impact, and which body parts absorb the force. According to the most recent guideline, a threshold of 6 m (20 ft) as a “critical falling height” has been associated with major injuries, including haemorrhage 1. Blood vessels torn during the trauma may continue bleeding until medical intervention occurs. This blood loss can quickly lead to hypovolemic shock, a life-threatening condition where the heart cannot pump enough blood to vital organs. Immediate medical attention is crucial for anyone who has fallen from a significant height, even if external bleeding isn't obvious, as internal hemorrhage can be just as dangerous.
Some key factors to consider in assessing the risk of significant blood loss from a fall from a cliff include:
- The height of the fall, with higher falls associated with greater risk of severe injury and blood loss
- The landing surface, with harder surfaces potentially causing more severe injuries
- The person's position during impact, with certain positions potentially leading to more severe injuries
- The presence of open fractures or internal injuries, which can lead to significant blood loss
- The patient's physiological response to the injury, including vital signs and laboratory results, which can help guide treatment decisions 1.
It's also important to note that the mechanism of injury represents an important screening tool to identify patients at risk for significant traumatic hemorrhage 1. In the context of a fall from a cliff, this means that the height of the fall, the landing surface, and the person's position during impact can all provide important clues about the potential for significant blood loss. By considering these factors and using the most recent and highest-quality evidence, healthcare providers can make informed decisions about the best course of treatment for patients who have fallen from a cliff.
From the Research
Cliff Fall Injuries
- A fall from a cliff can result in significant injuries, including skeletal, internal organ, and head injuries 2.
- The height of the fall, as well as the surface and body features, can influence the severity of the injuries 3.
- Injuries from high falls can be fatal, with the severity of the injury increasing with the height of the fall 3.
Blood Loss from Cliff Falls
- While there is no direct evidence on blood loss from cliff falls, studies on trauma patients suggest that significant blood loss can occur due to injuries from falls 4.
- Hemoglobin levels can drop within minutes of injury, indicating active bleeding, and can predict the need for intervention to stop hemorrhage 4.
- Trauma-induced coagulopathy can occur early after severe injury, leading to increased bleeding rate, transfusion requirements, and mortality 5.
Related Studies
- A study on burn surgery found that tranexamic acid can reduce blood losses and transfusions without increasing the risk of venous thromboembolism events or mortality 6.
- Another study discussed the potential use of fibrinogen concentrate and prothrombin complex concentrate in trauma patients to reduce bleeding and improve outcomes 5.
- A retrospective study on fatal falls found that the injury severity score (ISS) can be influenced by the height of the fall, but it is not possible to determine the precise height of fatal falls only on the basis of ISS 3.