CT-based ballistic wound path identification and trajectory analysis in anatomic ballistic phantoms

Area of Science:

• Forensic radiology
• Medical imaging analysis

Background:

• Accurate determination of ballistic trajectory is crucial in forensic investigations.
• Computed tomography (CT) offers advanced imaging capabilities for anatomical analysis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the accuracy of CT-based ballistic wound path identification in phantoms.
• To compare CT-derived trajectory angles with actual shooting angles.

Main Methods:

• Simulated ballistic impacts were created on phantom legs at known angles.
• Multidetector CT scans were performed on the phantoms.
• Wound path angles were measured using a Picture Archiving and Communication System (PACS) angle tool and calculated from 3D coordinates.

Main Results:

• All six wound paths were successfully identified on CT images.
• CT-derived angles showed high agreement with actual shooting angles (within 5°).
• High confidence levels (91-95%) were established for future angle determination accuracy.

Conclusions:

• Multidetector CT enables consistent identification of ballistic wound paths.
• CT-based methods provide accurate determination of trajectory angles in simulated models.
• This technique demonstrates feasibility for forensic applications.