Case series on telefono-type injuries in Mediterranean migrants

Authors

  • Marc Cassone MSF: Mediterranean Search and Rescue Operation and Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Vermon
  • Nicole Lessard MSF: Mediterranean Search and Rescue Operation
  • Benilde Perez Amez MSF: Mediterranean Search and Rescue Operation

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7146/torture.v35i1.152347

Keywords:

Ear injury, Ear cuffing, Tympanic Membrane Trauma, Libyan Detention Centers

Abstract

This case series discusses three instances of telefono-type physical violence collected during a Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) mission rescuing migrants crossing the Mediterranean from Libya. These cases demonstrate the various sequelae of ear-cuffing, including subjective hearing loss, tinnitus, ear pain, tympanic membrane rupture, and infection in this under-studied type of physical violence. The authors hope this case series further demonstrates the importance of awareness and recognition of subtle presentations of different types of torture.

References

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Published

2025-05-16

How to Cite

Cassone, M., Lessard, N., & Perez Amez, B. (2025). Case series on telefono-type injuries in Mediterranean migrants. Torture Journal, 35(1). https://doi.org/10.7146/torture.v35i1.152347