PP020 The Bing Bang That Made Captain Hook

Abstract

Introduction

Calcium carbide is a chemical compound, used for production of acetylene and calcium cyanide. Carbide lamps were used in Malaysia previously, it burns brighter and longer compared to candles. This is a case of carbide homemade firecracker with pattern of injuries.

Case Presentation

14-year-old boy brought in to emergency department after injury caused by an explosion of homemade firecracker, made with carbide and stones. On arrival, patient was alert and conscious with multiple injuries over his hands, face and eyes.  X-ray showed, multiple fracture of phalanges with missing distal phalanges. CT scan showed multiple foreign body over frontal region, right eye globe rupture and left eye corneal laceration. He underwent removal of right eye, suturing of left eye, and refashioning of his hands followed by continuation of care and rehabilitation in ward.

Discussion/Learning Point

It is believed that the patient made a Carbide Bomb which is commercially used for testing the humidity of stones and soil. The moisture from the stone and soil itself can react with carbide producing flammable acetylene gas. This is different from other cases, as addition of water needed for combustion.  As Carbide is cheap and easily available in Malaysia, homemade firecracker with carbide should be avoided to prevent injuries and disability.