An autopsy study of death due to Suicidal Hanging - 264 cases

The present study was carried out between 2010 and 2013, a total of 7968 Autopsies were conducted of which 3.31% (n - 264) cases were deaths due to hanging. The most preferred ligature materials were Stole (n - 79) and Bed spread/Sari (n - 68). In 88% of the cases, hanging was complete. Females (n - 136) and males (n - 128) were equally affected. The major age group involved in both the sexes was of 31-40 years, contributing to 50.76% (n - 136) of the self suspension. In 80.58% (n - 213) of the incidents, ligature mark showed discontinuity (incomplete). A Slip type of knot was used in majority of the noose, contributing to 97.73% (n - 258) of the suspensions. In 87.88% (n - 232) of hanging an oblique shaped ligature mark was noticed. The horizontal and near oblique ligature marks were seen only in cases of partial suspension. In 95.45% (n - 252) of the cases, the ligature mark showed blackening of the skin (friction burn). Only 4.54% (n - 12) showed intact skin. The outer layer of the skin over the ligature mark showed displacement in majority of the cases. Married victims contributed to 70.45% of cases. Domestic issues were the commonest reason (n - 82) for self suspension, of which female (n - 68) formed the majority of victims. In 70.83% (n - 187) of cases damage to neck muscle fibers and hemorrhage at the Sternal end of the Sternocleidomastoid muscle were present. In 85.61% (n - 226) of cases the cervical vertebra was intact. In 52.27% (n - 138) of the cases the internal carotid artery showed transverse tear. In 99.42% (n - 248) cases the thyroid cartilage was found intact. The hyoid bone was damaged in 6.06% (n - 16) of the victims. Majority of the victims, 59.09% (n - 156) belonged to low socioeconomic class.