Journal of Bacteriology & Parasitology

Bujang Senang - A myth or reality? Incidence of crocodile related injuries in West Borneo

6^th Annual Bacteriology and Parasitology Meeting

September 13-14, 2017 Singapore

Savarirajo JC; Sri Kumar SK; Boniface Deyoi Y; Faruk NA; Kamaruddin F

Sarawak General Hospital, Malaysia

Posters & Accepted Abstracts: J Bacteriol Parasitol

Abstract:

The Crocodylus Porosus or saltwater crocodile is a native reptile to Borneo. A crocodile bite can cause severe debilitating injuries and heavy tissue contamination, and can lead to death . It is estimated that there are 13,500 crocodiles in Sarawak. 27 deaths from 52 crocodile attacks since 20101, keeping alive the legend of a giant man-eating crocodile called Bujang Senang. Crocodile hunting has been allowed recently, but the local communities deem it a taboo. Attacks have increased, coinciding with the population growth. A 31-year-old man sustained a near total amputation of bilateral lower limbs following a crocodile attack. A bilateral below knee amputation was done, followed by a left above knee amputation and right hip disarticulation. Despite being on Vancomycin and Meropenem, he remained in septic shock. He did not survive. A 25-year-old man sustained multiple wounds over his left chest and axilla with an open comminuted fracture of the left humerus. His wounds were debrided and the left humerus immobilized with an external fixator to aid in wound care, and eventually healed. A 58-year-old woman sustained an open comminuted fracture of proximal phalanx of the ring finger and 1st metatarsal bones, with multiple puncture wounds. Wound debridement and K-wiring of the fractures was done. In both cases, Gentamicin, Cefuroxime and Metronidazole were administered. The fracture and wounds healed well.