A Prospective Autopsy Study of Hanging Deaths Among Individuals Aged 15–60 Years at Tirunelveli Medical College

Authors

  • Sakthivel K Madurai Medical College, Madurai
  • Arun Balan M Madurai Medical College, Madurai
  • Pary Prasath M Madurai Medical College, Madurai
  • Kaviya K Madurai Medical College, Madurai
  • Arun Kumar M Madurai Medical College, Madurai

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37506/fp65e872

Keywords:

Hanging, Ligature Mark & Material, Suicidal Thoughts

Abstract

Background: Hanging is one of the most common methods of suicide worldwide, posing significant forensic and
medico-legal concerns. This study aims to analyze autopsy findings in hanging cases, focusing on ligature marks,
types of hanging, and knot positions.
Methods: This prospective observational descriptive autopsy-based study was conducted over one year at
Tirunelveli Government Hospital, Tamil Nadu. A total of 150 cases of hanging were examined. A purposive
sampling method was used, including individuals aged 15-60 years. Detailed autopsy findings, including ligature
material, neck compression patterns, and other forensic parameters, were recorded and analyzed.
Results: The study provides insights into the distribution of hanging cases concerning age, gender, type of hanging,
ligature material used, and knot positioning. The forensic observations contribute to understanding the trends and
medico-legal implications associated with hanging deaths.
Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for awareness and preventive measures to address suicide by
hanging. This study

Author Biographies

  • Sakthivel K, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

    Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

  • Arun Balan M, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

    Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

  • Pary Prasath M, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

    Assistant Professor, Department of Forensic Medicine, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

  • Kaviya K, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

    Junior Resident, Department of Forensic Medicine, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

  • Arun Kumar M, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

    Junior Resident, Department of Forensic Medicine, Madurai Medical College, Madurai

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Published

2025-10-16

How to Cite

A Prospective Autopsy Study of Hanging Deaths Among Individuals Aged 15–60 Years at Tirunelveli Medical College. (2025). Indian Journal of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, 19(4), 70-77. https://doi.org/10.37506/fp65e872