Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Use of a Hanging-weight System for Isolated Renal Artery Occlusion
Published on: July 19, 2011
A filmed hanging without decerebrate and decorticate rigidity: a case report and pathophysiological considerations
Anny Sauvageau1, Sean Kelly, Corinne Ambrosi
1Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. anny.sauvageau@gmail.com
Abstract:
The study of filmed hangings in the recent has reveal a striking similarity in the agonal sequences, with a sequence of rapid loss of consciousness, convulsions, and then a complex pattern of decerebrate rigidity and decorticate rigidity. We report a case of filmed hanging not presenting with decerebrate and decorticate rigidity. A 52-year-old man stepped off a stool, hanging himself in a complete suspension in an upright position. The movement of the body stepping off the stool created a rotary movement around the ceiling's ring and the body of the hanging man immediately started to revolve around the ring. Apart for the rolling around the ceiling's ring, the body stayed motionless for the duration of the movie, without any evidence of decerebrate or decorticate rigidity. A review of the pathophysiology of these reflex posturing gives some insight as to the possible elucidation for their absence in this specific case.
Related Concept Videos
Alterations in Muscle Tone lll
Secondary Spinal Cord Injury llI: Pathophysiology
Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology
Alterations in Muscle Tone ll
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
