Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 6, 2026
07:28
A Contusive Model of Unilateral Cervical Spinal Cord Injury Using the Infinite Horizon Impactor
Published on: July 24, 2012
Injuries to the cervix in sexual assault victims
Patricia Keller1, Megan Lechner
1Ralston House, Arvada, CO St. Anthony's Hospital, Denver, CO, USA. spkeller@juno.com
Journal of Forensic Nursing
|December 1, 2010
Summary
Cervical injuries are uncommon in sexual assault survivors, with only 12.3% experiencing documented harm. This study examined injury types and mechanisms in sexual assault cases.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Medicine
- Gynecology
- Trauma Research
Background:
- Limited research exists on genital injuries in sexual assault victims.
- Cervical injuries in sexual assault survivors are particularly understudied.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of cervical injuries in women after sexual assault.
- To identify the types of cervical injuries observed.
- To explore injury mechanisms and their relation to specific injury types.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of medical charts.
- Analysis of 538 charts, with a final sample of 114 sexual assault victims.
- Documentation of cervical injury presence, type, and associated mechanisms.
Main Results:
- 87.8% of victims (n=100) had no documented cervical injury.
- 12.3% of victims (n=14) presented with documented cervical injury.
- Statistical analyses for injury types and mechanisms were nonsignificant.
Conclusions:
- Cervical injuries are infrequent in this cohort of sexual assault survivors.
- Despite nonsignificant statistical findings, clinical implications warrant attention.
- Further research is recommended to better understand cervical trauma in sexual assault.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Sexually Transmitted Infections
Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are diseases transmitted primarily through unsafe sexual interactions. Bacteria, viruses, or parasites cause them and can result in severe health complications if untreated.ChlamydiaThe bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis is responsible for the disease Chlamydia, the most common STI in the United States. This peculiar pathogen requires human cells to reproduce, residing intracellularly. The initial infection often goes unnoticed because it typically does not...
01:14Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology
Spinal cord injury progresses through two interconnected phases: primary injury and secondary injury.Primary InjuryPrimary injury happens at the moment of trauma and involves immediate mechanical damage to the spinal cord.Compression happens when broken vertebrae, herniated discs, or accumulating blood (such as a hematoma) press directly against the spinal cord, distorting its normal shape and function. In cases of contusion, the cord is bruised by a blunt force (like penetrating injuries or...
01:22Esophageal Perforation-I: Introduction
Esophageal perforation is a severe medical condition characterized by a breach in the integrity of the esophageal wall. This breach can occur due to various factors such as trauma, medical procedures, or underlying diseases. When the esophageal wall is compromised, it allows food, fluids, and digestive juices into the chest cavity or adjacent structures, leading to potential complications and health risks.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
The location of esophageal perforation can vary, occurring anywhere along the esophagus.
01:24Disorders of the Female Reproductive System
The female reproductive system can be affected by several disorders, including Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), endometriosis, and various forms of cancer. PMS and PMDD are cyclical conditions that cause physical and emotional distress, with symptoms that include edema, mood swings, and food cravings. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS characterized by increased symptom severity that peaks during the luteal phase and tends to improve or resolve shortly after...
01:29Herniated Intervertebral Disc l: Introduction
Intervertebral disc herniation refers to the displacement of the nucleus pulposus (the gel-like inner core of the disc) through a tear or weakened area in the annulus fibrosus (the outer fibrous ring). The displaced disc material extends beyond the normal boundaries of the disc space and may compress or irritate nearby spinal nerve roots or, less commonly, the spinal cord.Etiology and Risk FactorsHerniation commonly results from degeneration, in which aging reduces disc hydration and...
01:18Uterus and Cervix
The uterus, commonly called the womb, is a vital reproductive organ in females designed to provide a nurturing environment for the implantation and growth of an embryo. It is shaped like a hollow pear and positioned between the urinary bladder and the rectum. The uterus's structure allows it to support and protect a developing fetus throughout pregnancy.
The uterus is securely anchored within the pelvic cavity by paired broad ligaments on either side. It is further stabilized by three pairs of...
The uterus is securely anchored within the pelvic cavity by paired broad ligaments on either side. It is further stabilized by three pairs of...