Artefacts due to putrefactive gas production - an overview

Area of Science:

• Forensic Science
• Taphonomy
• Postmortem Changes

Background:

• Autolytic and putrefactive processes significantly alter soft tissues and internal organs.
• These postmortem changes can complicate forensic assessments and interpretations of trauma.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of taphonomic changes resulting from postmortem putrefactive gas accumulation.
• To highlight potential misinterpretations of these changes in forensic investigations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and analysis of documented cases involving postmortem putrefactive gas accumulation.
• Examination of common and less common phenomena associated with gas buildup.

Main Results:

• Purging of fluids from orifices is common and can be mistaken for antemortem bleeding.
• Putrefactive rigor mortis, limb extension, and altered body position may suggest movement.
• Surgical incisions may dehisce, and intra-abdominal pressure can cause herniation or 'coffin birth'.
• Gas accumulation on postmortem computed tomography (CT) can mimic air embolism or trauma.

Conclusions:

• Postmortem gas accumulation, driven by anaerobic bacterial action, creates pressure gradients leading to diverse tissue alterations.
• Understanding these taphonomic changes is crucial for accurate forensic interpretation and avoiding misdiagnosis of trauma or tampering.