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Retrospective study on suicidal cases by sharp force injuries.

Setsuko Fukube¹, Takahito Hayashi, Yuko Ishida

¹Department of Forensic Medicine, Wakayama Medical University, 811-1 Kimiidera, Wakayama 641-8509, Japan.

Journal of Forensic and Legal Medicine

|March 4, 2008

Summary

Sharp force injuries are a rare cause of suicide, primarily affecting males aged 50-70. Hesitation marks and specific wound locations aid in distinguishing suicide from homicide.

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Area of Science:

Forensic Pathology
Public Health
Suicidology

Background:

Sharp force injuries represent a significant, though infrequent, method of suicide.
Understanding the characteristics of these injuries is crucial for forensic investigations.

Purpose of the Study:

To analyze the demographic, injury patterns, and circumstances of suicides involving sharp force.
To identify key features that assist in differentiating suicide by sharp force from homicide.

Main Methods:

Retrospective analysis of 65 suicide cases attributed to sharp force injuries over an 11-year period (1995-2005).
Examination of victim demographics, medical history, presence of suicide notes, injury locations, and wound characteristics (e.g., tentative wounds, hesitation marks).

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Main Results:

Sharp force injuries accounted for 2.5% of all suicides; victims were predominantly males (49/65) aged 50-70.
Common injury sites included wrists/neck for cutting and chest for stabbing. Tentative wounds were present in 57% of cases.
A history of psychiatric illness was noted in 11 victims, with depression being most common.

Conclusions:

Sharp force suicides exhibit distinct patterns in victim demographics and injury characteristics.
The presence of tentative wounds and specific anatomical locations can aid in distinguishing suicide from homicide.
Comprehensive scene investigation, witness information, and postmortem examination are vital for accurate determination.