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Biomechanical factors in human dermal bitemarks in a cadaver model
Mary A Bush1, Raymond G Miller, Peter J Bush
1Laboratory for Forensic Odontology Research, School of Dental Medicine, SUNY at Buffalo, B1 Squire Hall, South Campus, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA. bushma@buffalo.edu
Journal of Forensic Sciences
|December 2, 2008
Summary
Forensic bitemark analysis must account for skin distortion due to biomechanical properties and victim movement. Cadaver studies show significant variation in bite marks, highlighting challenges in identification.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Odontology
- Biomechanics
- Dermatology
Background:
- Bitemark analysis requires understanding skin's biomechanical properties and post-mortem distortion.
- Cadaver studies are crucial for evaluating these factors in forensic odontology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate skin biomechanics and postural movement effects on bitemark distortion.
- To assess the variability of bitemarks on cadaver skin.
Main Methods:
- 23 bites from a single dentition were made on un-embalmed cadaver skin.
- Bitemarks were photographed before and after body manipulations.
- Hollow volume overlays and metric analysis were used to quantify distortion.
Main Results:
- None of the 23 bitemarks were measurably identical.
- Significant distortion was observed in some bitemarks after body manipulation.
- Intercanine, mesial-to-distal, and rotational distortion varied greatly.
Conclusions:
- Skin biomechanics and victim movement significantly distort bitemarks.
- Bitemark analysis must consider these distortion factors for accurate identification.
- Cadaver studies demonstrate inherent variability in bitemark patterns.
