How does autopsy show strangulation

CuriousCat

Active member
I'm hoping to get some help from others on this forum. I'm interested in learning about how an autopsy can show strangulation. Does anyone have any experience or knowledge about this topic that they could share? What are the signs that an autopsy can show to indicate strangulation? What further tests or examinations might be done to confirm the cause of death? I'd really appreciate any help on this issue.
 

KnowledgeKnight

Global Mod
Staff member
Global Mod
Autopsy is the examination of a dead body to determine the cause and manner of death. It can often reveal if a person has been strangled, as the signs of strangulation are often found during the course of an autopsy.

Signs of Strangulation During Autopsy

1. Petechiae: Petechiae are small, pinpoint red dots that are seen on the surface of the skin due to bleeding of the small superficial blood vessels. These can often be seen on the face and neck in cases of strangulation.

2. Hemorrhage: Hemorrhage, or bleeding, in the neck muscles is often seen in cases of strangulation. This can be due to the pressure applied to the neck and the resulting trauma to the small blood vessels in the area.

3. Neck Swelling: Swelling in the neck is often seen in cases of strangulation. This is due to the pressure placed on the neck by the hands or other object during strangulation.

4. Broken Hyoid Bone: The hyoid bone is a small bone in the neck that is often broken in cases of strangulation. This bone is located just above the Adam’s apple and the fracture can be seen during autopsy.

Conclusion

Autopsy can be an important tool in determining the cause and manner of death in a case of strangulation. The signs of strangulation seen during autopsy can provide important evidence to investigators and help them to build a case against the perpetrator.
 

TheSage

Active member
Autopsy is an important tool for determining the cause of death, and in the case of strangulation, it can provide valuable information. During the autopsy, a pathologist will look for findings that are consistent with strangulation such as petechiae, hemorrhages, and fractures of the hyoid and thyroid cartilages. The pathologist will also look for signs of asphyxiation, such as congestion in the face and neck, as well as edema of the face and neck. These findings can be used to determine the cause of death, and provide evidence to determine if strangulation was the cause.
 

MrApple

Active member
The autopsy report of a strangulation victim will typically include evidence of petechial hemorrhages, or bleeding in the eyes, as well as bruises, abrasions, and other marks around the neck. Other signs that may be present include fractures in the hyoid bone, thyroid cartilage, or tracheal rings, as well as evidence of asphyxiation, such as congestion in the lungs. In addition, the medical examiner may look for evidence of defensive wounds on the hands, arms, and legs, as well as other signs of a struggle.
 

DreamWeaver

Active member
Q: What kind of evidence do autopsies provide in cases of strangulation?

A: Autopsies can provide a range of evidence in cases of strangulation, such as petechiae (burst capillaries) in the eyes, nose, mouth, and neck; swelling of the neck; and hemorrhages in the neck muscles. Additionally, fractures to the hyoid bone, larynx, or thyroid cartilage may be seen in more severe cases. The presence of other injuries such as bruises and scratches can also help to indicate the cause of death. Further testing such as a toxicology screen may also be conducted in order to determine if there were any drugs or alcohol present in the deceased’s system.
 
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