Analyzing the Injuries in Home Alone: A Trauma Surgeon’s Perspective

Summary

In this article, we explore the injuries sustained by the characters in the Home Alone movie series, as analyzed by trauma surgeon Annie Onishi. From falls to burns to puncture wounds, we delve into the potential medical implications of each injury and the likelihood of recovery.

The Severity of Falls in Home Alone
Burns and Puncture Wounds: Risks and Difficulties in Treatment
Head Injuries and Visual Defects
Handlebar Injuries and Deceleration Injuries
Conclusion

The Severity of Falls in Home Alone

Annie Onishi notes that the first fall in the Home Alone series, in which a character lands flat on their back from a height, is the most severe. The impact of this fall could result in significant injuries, such as broken bones or internal organ damage. The second fall, while less dramatic, is still severe in the context of the preceding injury and could result in broken ribs and potential damage to internal organs. Harry’s fall from height may have caused broken ribs and a collapsed lung, which could make it difficult for him to speak. The speaker also discusses the potential for a hangman’s fracture or other serious injuries from the characters’ falls and impacts.

Burns and Puncture Wounds: Risks and Difficulties in Treatment

The speaker notes the high risk of infection associated with puncture injuries due to the warm and bloody environment that bacteria thrive in. They also express concern about the burns sustained by one character, which are likely second-degree burns and may be difficult to treat, particularly with glue and feathers in the wound.

Head Injuries and Visual Defects

Annie Onishi discusses the potential for head injuries in the Home Alone series, particularly from falls and impacts. They note that a ground-level fall with a head strike on the back could result in a contrecoup injury, which occurs when the brain hits the front of the skull after being rocked from the back. The speaker expresses concern about the characters’ visual field and potential visual defects due to their head injuries.

Handlebar Injuries and Deceleration Injuries

The blow from the crowbar in Home Alone is reminiscent of a handlebar injury, which can cause a lot of damage to the organs. Deceleration injuries can also be subtle and difficult to detect. The speaker notes the potential for an epidural hematoma, which can cause a loss of consciousness and even death. They also mention that the zygomatic arc is a fragile bone and can easily break from a punch to the cheekbone.

Conclusion

Overall, the injuries sustained by the characters in the Home Alone series are analyzed in detail by Annie Onishi. While some injuries may be difficult to treat, the characters seem to recover quickly, either due to their toughness or the expertise of their trauma doctor. This analysis offers a unique perspective on the medical implications of the injuries portrayed in the popular movie series.