Kate McGoldrick , SallyAnne Collis , Linda Mulligan
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Introduction
Fatal falls involving stairs are often associated with advanced age, intoxication, acute natural pathology and less commonly – the involvement of a third-party. The injury patterns seen in these cases are often complex and from a medico-legal standpoint, determining third-party involvement based on pathology alone can prove a significant challenge. Classifying the manner of death in such cases, can become particularly complex when the injury pattern appears inconsistent with a simple fall downstairs, or there is an absence of eye-witness testimony.
Aim
To explore the circumstances and injury patterns seen in cases of fatal falls downstairs which were classified as accidental vs. undetermined by the coroners.
Study design
This retrospective study explored the injury patterns present in all cases of fatal falls downstairs referred to the Office of the State Pathologist (OSP) over a 10-year-period (2012–2022) (n = 51).
Results
Fatal falls downstairs which were classified as undetermined were found to have a greater number of craniofacial fractures, spinal fractures and intracranial injuries when compared to accidental falls. Undetermined staircase deaths also displayed more significant fracturing involving the facial skeleton.
Conclusion
Ultimately, where there is a question of third-party involvement, the Post-Mortem Examination (PME) findings alone cannot determine the manner of death. The pathologist's examination may identify injuries that are inconsistent with a simple fall downstairs, but it is the coroner who must conduct a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the fatal fall and ultimately determine the classification of the death.
期刊介绍:
The Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine publishes topical articles on aspects of forensic and legal medicine. Specifically the Journal supports research that explores the medical principles of care and forensic assessment of individuals, whether adult or child, in contact with the judicial system. It is a fully peer-review hybrid journal with a broad international perspective.
The Journal accepts submissions of original research, review articles, and pertinent case studies, editorials, and commentaries in relevant areas of Forensic and Legal Medicine, Context of Practice, and Education and Training.
The Journal adheres to strict publication ethical guidelines, and actively supports a culture of inclusive and representative publication.