 |
|
Evidence that stun guns may stimulate the heart
May 05, 2008On the eve of the British Columbia inquiry into the death of Robert Dziekanski, a review of scientific data in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) finds that in some cases, stun guns may stimulate the heart in experimental models. This evidence is contrary to current views that stun guns only affect skeletal muscles.
"The frequency and the shape of the pulses generated by stun guns are designed to incapacitate the target by electrically overwhelming his or her control of these muscles," state Dr. K. Nanthakumar and colleagues. "In principle, these pulses are designed to act only on skeletal muscles and to not affect internal organs such as the heart." The evidence that stun guns do not stimulate the heart is based on "-theoretical studies [that] suggest that stun guns cannot deliver the amount of energy required to stimulate the heart or cause ventricular fibrillation."
Dr. Nanthakumar and collegues point out that most theoretical and some experimental studies reveal that cardiac stimulation does not occur with stun gun discharges. However, experimental studies on pigs by 3 independent groups of investigators found that "a stun gun discharge can stimulate the heart" depending on the location of the stun gun barbs. Barbs that are located such that they form a vector across the heart have greater effect than those focused on the abdomen. In one study, swine blood pressure was abruptly lost after discharge of a stun gun, and another study "reported the deaths of 2 animals caused by ventricular fibrillation immediately after the stun gun discharge-.This suggests that sufficient current density was produced by the stun gun to stimulate the heart, which according to theory should not and could not occur."
The researchers caution against applying data from pigs to humans, although "most of the basic mechanistic concepts in cardiac fibrillation and defibrillation are derived from animal studies, not humans."
Recently, there have been several deaths after the use of stun guns, including Robert Dziekanski in Richmond, British Columbia, a Montréal, Quebec man and 24 year-old Chicago, Illionois resident, Kevin Piskura. More than 300 deaths following stun gun use have been documented, 20 of them in Canada.
Regarding arrhythmias long after the discharge of the stun gun, Dr. Nanthakumar, Dr. Paul Dorian and colleagues conclude "-there is no conclusive evidence to show whether stun gun stimulation (under certain electrophysical conditions) can result in cardiac arrhythmias late after stun gun discharge. With regards to deleterious effects on the heart during the discharge they state "In our view, it is inappropriate to conclude that stun gun discharges cannot lead to adverse cardiac consequences in all real world settings."
Canadian Medical Association Journal
The researchers caution against applying data from pigs to humans, although "most of the basic mechanistic concepts in cardiac fibrillation and defibrillation are derived from animal studies, not humans."
Recently, there have been several deaths after the use of stun guns, including Robert Dziekanski in Richmond, British Columbia, a Montréal, Quebec man and 24 year-old Chicago, Illionois resident, Kevin Piskura. More than 300 deaths following stun gun use have been documented, 20 of them in Canada.
Regarding arrhythmias long after the discharge of the stun gun, Dr. Nanthakumar, Dr. Paul Dorian and colleagues conclude "-there is no conclusive evidence to show whether stun gun stimulation (under certain electrophysical conditions) can result in cardiac arrhythmias late after stun gun discharge. With regards to deleterious effects on the heart during the discharge they state "In our view, it is inappropriate to conclude that stun gun discharges cannot lead to adverse cardiac consequences in all real world settings."
Canadian Medical Association Journal
First study to test real-world effects of stun gun use raises questions about safety
The rate of sudden deaths increased six-fold in the first year that California law enforcement agencies deployed the use of stun guns, according to a UCSF study. Findings also showed a two-fold increase in the rate of firearm-related deaths during the same time period.
Meals high in saturated fat impair 'good' cholesterol's ability to protect against clogged arteries
Before you bite into that burger or devour that doughnut, first chew on this: New research shows that just one meal high in saturated fat can affect the body's ability to protect itself against some of the underlying causes of heart disease and stroke.
More Stun Gun Current Events and Stun Gun News Articles
 |
SABRE Compact Pepper Spray with Pink Key Case - Supports National Breast Cancer Foundation by SABRE Cool style and hot protection are combined in SABRE's most popular product. This attractive, pink compact pepper spray delivers a strong balistic stream to reduce wind blow back. Providing extremely practical protection, SABRE permits distance from your threat with its ten (10) foot range, and its quick release key ring and attachment clip ensure its accessible when needed! Help fight breast cancer as sales of this product support the National Breast Cancer Foundation! Size: 1/2 oz. |
 |
Streetwise 750k Volt Mini Stun Baton W/ Holster |
 |
TASER C2 Model 31080 Red with Laser Sight by TASER C2 The Red TASER C2 is TASER's newest product designed for personal safety using the same technology as their proven law enforcement models and TASER boasts that the TASER C2 has incredible take down power. The TASER C2 self-defense electronic control device, (ECD) uses propelled wires to conduct energy to affect the sensory and motor functions of an intruder's nervous system. The TASER C2 can be used as a direct contact stun device. The TASER C2 uses a replaceable TASER cartridge, containing compressed nitrogen, to deploy two small probes that are attached to the TASER C2 by insulated conductive wires with a maximum length of 15 feet (4.5 meters). The energy can penetrate up to two cumulative inches of clothing or one inch per probe.
Advanced Features
Small,... |
 |
TASER C2 Model 30010 Black w/o Laser Sight by TASER C2 The TASER C2 is TASER's newest product designed for personal safety using the same technology as their proven law enforcement models and TASER boasts that the TASER C2 has incredible take down power. The TASER C2 self-defense electronic control device, (ECD) uses propelled wires to conduct energy to affect the sensory and motor functions of an intruder's nervous system. The TASER C2 can be used as a direct contact stun device. The TASER C2 uses a replaceable TASER cartridge, containing compressed nitrogen, to deploy two small probes that are attached to the TASER C2 by insulated conductive wires with a maximum length of 15 feet (4.5 meters). The energy can penetrate up to two cumulative inches of clothing or one inch per probe. |
 |
Universal Law Enforcement Rubber Coated Steel Dual Weapon Rack by Haynes Hunting Systems This dual gun/bow/umbrella rack will fit perfectly in a Crown Vic trunk lid. (Many law enforcement people use this rack) It fits some other car trunks too. Perfect for indoors gun rack for home/office, behind a truck seat, etc. Screw in the 4 self tapping (included) 4 screws. Type in Haynes Hunting Systems under Automotive and under Sports and Outdoors category to view all our patented power sport and hunting golf cart accessories. |
 |
1/2oz. 17% Streetwise Pepper Spray, Pink by Streetwise Security Products Pepper spray enables you to defend yourself while keeping a safe distance from an attacker. A one second burst to the face will cause temporary blindness and choking and coughing and nausea-bringing the attacker to his knees. The active ingredient in our spray is Oleoresin Capsicum (O.C.) commonly referred to as red pepper. When considering which pepper spray is most effective one must consider the percentage of pepper being used and the heat rating of that pepper (measured in Scoville Heat Units or S.H.U.). All of our pepper sprays are two million S.H.U. which is the highest available. At 17 percent and two million S.H.U. our Street Wise pepper spray is the hottest and most powerful in the world. The potency of this spray enables it to bring down even the most aggressive assailants. We... |
 |
Stun Master Stun Baton 20 inches long by Stun Master Stun Master Stun Baton 20 inches long. Because of their power and extended reach, STUN MASTER STUN BATONS are a favorite among security guards. Simply touch an assailant with the baton and pull the trigger: three-to-five seconds will leave the assailant dazed and temporarily paralyzed. The baton will also deliver a shock when touched six inches from the tip, to prevent an assailant from taking it away. Rubber handle. Powered by two 9-volt Energizer Eveready alkaline batteries (not included). LIFETIME WARRANTY. |
 |
Spitfire Brand Personal Defense Pepper Spray - 4.5 grams (black dispenser) by Spitfire Spitfire brand point & shoot pepper spray. |
 |
Cold Steel Sjambok - 42" - Black by Cold Steel Knives The synthetic Sjambok hits just as hard as the traditional Hippo hide version from Africa. This updated model combines heavier construction and a thicker Kraton handle to produce greater power and control. 42" overall |
 |
Mace Brand 10% PepperGel Large Personal Defense Spray by Mace Mace 10% PepperGel Large is an ideal everyday personal defense product. PepperGel is a 1.4% capsaicinoid concentration suspended in a sticky gel rather than a liquid. Sprays up to 10 feet further than conventional sprays. The thick gel sticks to the face and causes temporary blindness. Mace PepperGel is hotter than many other pepper sprays on the market but is non-toxic and causes only temporary discomfort. Contains UV dye to invisibly mark an assailant for possible identification. The gel formula minimizes cross-contamination and is ideal for indoor use. Effective for up to three years. Contains 45 grams and sprays 7 short bursts with an effective range up to 18 feet. Flip-top safety cap prevents accidental discharge. |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |