title: Retrospective Analysis of Hanging Deaths in Ontario.
abstract: Hanging deaths from investigation standpoint are rarely problematic. Unusual circumstances can on occasion raise suspicion of foul play. Associated neck injuries are reported in the literature with variable frequency (from 0% to 76.8%). This study retrospectively analyzed 755 hanging deaths in Ontario (Canada) to evaluate the demographic features and circumstances of hanging fatalities, and the frequency of hanging-related neck injuries. A number of cases showed unusual/special circumstances (e.g., complex, double suicides, restraints). Among 632 cases with complete autopsies, hyoid and larynx fractures were present in 46 cases (7.3%) with the most common being isolated hyoid fractures. The incidence of cricoid fractures was 0.5% and cervical spine injuries, 1.1%. A higher incidence of neck injuries occurred among males, long drop hangings, and in cases with complete suspension. There was a tendency for the number of fractures to increase with increasing age and weight of the deceased.
authors: Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A 5A5, Canada.
authors: Elena
authors: E
authors: Tugaleva
authors: Department of Psychology, King's College, Western University, London, ON, N6A 2M3, Canada.
authors: Donald R
authors: DR
authors: Gorassini
authors: Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, London Health Sciences Centre, London, ON, N6A 5A5, Canada.
authors: Michael J
authors: MJ
authors: Shkrum
mesh_terms: D001237:Asphyxia; D005260:Female; D005554:Forensic Medicine; D050724:Fractures, Cartilage; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D019838:Neck Injuries; D009864:Ontario; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013405:Suicide; D013957:Thyroid Cartilage
keywords: autopsy; forensic pathology; forensic science; hanging; hyoid; larynx; neck injuries