An autopsy study of death due to Suicidal Hanging – 264 cases

Abstract

The present study was carried out between 2010 and 2013, a total of 7968 Autopsies were conducted of which 3.31% (n – 264) cases were deaths due to hanging. The most preferred ligature materials were Stole (n – 79) and Bed spread/Sari (n – 68). In 88% of the cases, hanging was complete. Females (n – 136) and males (n – 128) were equally affected. The major age group involved in both the sexes was of 31–40years, contributing to 50.76% (n – 136) of the self suspension. In 80.58% (n – 213) of the incidents, ligature mark showed discontinuity (incomplete). A Slip type of knot was used in majority of the noose, contributing to 97.73% (n – 258) of the suspensions. In 87.88% (n – 232) of hanging an oblique shaped ligature mark was noticed. The horizontal and near oblique ligature marks were seen only in cases of partial suspension. In 95.45% (n – 252) of the cases, the ligature mark showed blackening of the skin (friction burn). Only 4.54% (n – 12) showed intact skin. The outer layer of the skin over the ligature mark showed displacement in majority of the cases. Married victims contributed to 70.45% of cases. Domestic issues were the commonest reason (n – 82) for self suspension, of which female (n – 68) formed the majority of victims. In 70.83% (n – 187) of cases damage to neck muscle fibers and hemorrhage at the Sternal end of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle were present. In 85.61% (n – 226) of cases the cervical vertebra was intact. In 52.27% (n – 138) of the cases the internal carotid artery showed transverse tear. In 99.42% (n – 248) cases the thyroid cartilage was found intact. The hyoid bone was damaged in 6.06% (n – 16) of the victims. Majority of the victims, 59.09% (n – 156) belonged to low socioeconomic class.