Analysis of Asphyxial Deaths Due To Hanging

Abstract

Violent deaths resulting from asphyxia chiefly includes Hanging. Medico-legal questions likely to  arise in case of hanging are mainly, whether the death was caused by hanging was suicidal, homicidal or  accidental. Simulated suicidal hanging interferes the investigating process in unnatural deaths. To arrive  at conclusion, detailed external examination, internal examination and analysis of samples, plays vital  role. Apart from autopsy the ligature material used, place, point of suspension and review of scene of  crime may add to the conclusion. Mumbai city it is considered as city of glamour & heart of state and  cosmopolitan population. Always with some stress, suicide by hanging is noted in productive age group of  youngsters. Present study is conducted at Government Medical College, Mumbai. All cases of alleged  history of hanging brought for autopsy examination were studied. After detailed external and internal  examination preserved necessary samples. The medico-legal examination records and inquest papers  are analyzed. The observations and analysis of the study is presented here.