Fatal recto-sigmoid rupture by compressed air

Compressed air is a concentrated stream of air at high pressure and high speed that can cause fatal injury to the operator and the people around him when handled inappropriately. The case herein reported is that of a victim of a practical joke, who suffered a fatal recto - sigmoid rupture due to transanal insufflation of compressed air at his workplace. The case highlights the need for implementation of guidelines for safe handling of compressed gases and it also calls for appropriate work place etiquette to avoid such fatal practical jokes at work.