Role of pyloric sphincter in estimating time since death & in toxicological analysis

Abstract

Background and Objects: Estimation of time since death from rigor mortis in various parts of the body plays vital role in forensic investigations. The aim of the study was to find out the appearance of rigor mortis in pyloric sphincter and how far it influences in toxicological analysis. Methods: Study was done on 60 known corpses (34 males and 26 females) during and prior to the medico legal autopsy at Tirunelveli Medical College, Tamilnadu, India. The dye was introduced into the stomach through Ryle’s tube intubation and examined for presence of dye in the small intestine after various time intervals. Results: Among 60 cases, dye was not found in 26 cases when the time since death was less than 12hours. The dye was noted in small intestine in 34 cases where the time since death was after 12hours. Interpretation: This study clearly proves that rigor mortis of pyloric sphincter passes off by 12hours since death. When the time since death is concluded as more than 12hours, preservation of stomach and small intestine separately is of no value. Mere presence of poison in stomach and small intestine is not a confirmative evidence of ante mortem poisoning. Conclusion: This study proves that rigor mortis in pyloric sphincter shows major impact in determination of cause of death and in toxicological analysis. Key words: Pyloric sphincter, Rigor mortis, Time since death, Toxicology