Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 13, 2026

Mouse Cardiac Arrest Model for Brain Imaging and Brain Physiology Monitoring During Ischemia and Resuscitation
Published on: April 14, 2023
An unusual case of suicidal asphyxia by smothering
P Saint-Martin1, M Bouyssy, P O'Byrne
1Institute of Forensic Sciences, University Hospital of Tours, Trousseau, 37 044 Tours, France. ppauline51@wanadoo.fr
Abstract:
A case is presented of a 30-year-old man suffering from borderline personality disorder who committed suicide by means of smothering. He was hospitalized at the psychiatric department of a public hospital for several months and was found dead in the seclusion room. The death resulted from an obstruction of the upper aerodigestive tract after ingurgitation of pellets of toilet paper. A literature review revealed several cases of suicidal asphyxia by smothering of patients with a history of psychiatric illness. Our patient's operating process had not been reported before to our knowledge.
Related Concept Videos
Acute Respiratory Failure-IV
Alterations in Respiration II
In Biot's breathing, the respiratory rate and depth are irregular, alternating between periods of deep gasping and apnea. Common causes include...
Assessment of Airway, Skin Color, and Use of Accessory Muscles
Introduction
The initial evaluation of a patient's respiratory system...
Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation II: ACLS Airway Management
Physical Assessment of the Respiratory Tract II: Inspection
Chest Configuration
The chest configuration can...
Acute Respiratory Failure-III

