Study of Profile of Ligature Materials used in Case of Hanging in Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bengaluru

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Original Article

Author Details : Yadukul.S, Ashwin Kamal, Shivakumar BC, Udaya Shankar

Volume : 3, Issue : 1, Year : 2016

Article Page : 56-59

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Abstract

Background: Hanging (self-suspension) is that form of asphyxia which is caused by suspension of the body by a ligature which encircles the neck, the constricting force being the weight of the body. The person will use any article readily available for this purpose, like a rope, metallic chains and wires, leather strap, belt, bed sheet, scarf, dhothi, saree, turban, sacred thread, etc. The Doctor who performs the autopsy should note whether the mark on the neck corresponds with the material alleged to have been used in hanging, and if it is strong enough to bear the weight and the jerk of the body.
Methods: The present prospective study is done in the Department of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Institute, Bengaluru for a period of 6 months considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria.
Results: During our study period, a total of 102 Autopsies were conducted in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology, Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences, Bengaluru. In this study, the incidence of Hanging is 33.33% (34 out of 102). Males outnumbered the female with a male: female ratio of 10:3 with highest incidence of hanging being noticed in the age group of 16-30 years (62%). Soft material (77%) was the most commonly used ligature material than the hard one.
Conclusion: To conclude, this study will educate and provide awful information for the Investigating Officer (Police and Magistrate) in investigating cases of Hanging.

Keywords: Hanging, Autopsy, Ligature Material

How to cite : Yadukul.s, Kamal A, Shivakumar Bc, Shankar U, Study of Profile of Ligature Materials used in Case of Hanging in Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences & Research Centre, Bengaluru. Indian J Forensic Community Med 2016;3(1):56-59

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