Strangulation is a dangerous and potentially deadly form of assault. When someone is strangled, the pressure on the neck can cause serious injury, including the fracture of the hyoid bone. The hyoid bone is a U-shaped bone in the neck that helps to support the tongue and other structures of the throat. It is located just below the Adam's apple.
The fracture of the hyoid bone is commonly associated with strangulation, as the pressure applied to the neck can cause the bone to break. In some cases, the hyoid bone may not be broken, but instead may be stretched or compressed. In either case, the injury can be serious and can cause long-term damage to the throat and surrounding structures.
In some cases, the fracture of the hyoid bone can be the only sign of strangulation. This is because the injury can be difficult to detect without the help of medical imaging. An x-ray or CT scan can help to identify the fracture, and a forensic examination may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
It is important to note that the fracture of the hyoid bone is not always caused by strangulation. In some cases, the bone may be fractured due to trauma such as a fall, motor vehicle accident, or a sports-related injury. Therefore, it is important to seek medical attention if you suspect that you or a loved one has suffered a fracture of the hyoid bone.
