Patterns of breaks in umbilical cords by different mechanisms

Area of Science:

• Forensic pathology
• Obstetrics
• Pediatric pathology

Background:

• Discrepancies between autopsy findings and witness accounts are common in perinatal death investigations.
• Determining the method of umbilical cord severance is crucial for investigative accuracy.
• Objective data on umbilical cord severance mechanisms is currently limited.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and differentiate the morphological characteristics of umbilical cords severed by various mechanisms.
• To establish objective criteria for identifying the tool or force used to sever an umbilical cord.

Main Methods:

• Examined 99 placentas with umbilical cords.
• Randomly severed cords using knives, scissors, traction, or crush.
• Documented gross and microscopic features of the severed ends.
• Photographed each break for detailed analysis.

Main Results:

• Gross examination revealed distinct morphological differences between blunt and sharp force cord severances.
• Microscopic examination of tissue sections provided further differentiating features.
• Specific patterns of injury were identified for different sharp force mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• Umbilical cord morphology provides reliable indicators of the severance mechanism.
• Objective differentiation between blunt and sharp force trauma to the umbilical cord is achievable.
• This research offers valuable data for forensic investigations involving perinatal deaths.