A prospective study of the pattern of ligature marks and its correlation with the manner of death

Abstract

Background: Deaths resulting from hanging show features amongst which the ligature mark in the neck is considered to be decisive. Aim: To study the pattern of ligature marks and to correlate the ligature mark with the manner of death. Materials and Methods: The sample for this study consisted of 80 cases of hanging which were reported during the study period along with detailed information regarding the deceased and the circumstances of death was collected from the police and relatives. Results: Maximum number of suicidal hangings occurred in the age group of 20 to 29 years (mean=24.5). Numbers of hanging deaths in the men were more than the women. Conclusion: A distinct ligature mark furrow/groove of the width and pattern of the material used is observed in cases where a narrow and tough or hard ligature material is employed. Also in cases of complete hanging prominent ligature mark is observed.