Forensic Aspects of Trauma

Question 1

Injury

Answer 1

Disruption of the integrity of the tissues resulting from the application of an external force. It is the consequence of transfer of energy, and the greater the energy the greater the disruption to the tissue and so the greater the injury.

Question 2

energies that may result in injury

Answer 2

Mechanical
Thermal
Electrical
Radiation
Chemical

Question 3

Determinants of injurt

Answer 3

Force
Area
Duration
Direction

Question 4

Biological factors influencing the injury

Answer 4

Mobility
Anticipation, coordination and reaction
Biomechanical properties of the tissue affected (elasticity, plasticity and viscosity)

Question 5

Blunt force Injury

Answer 5

Bruise (contusion)
Abrasion
Laceration - margins will not be uniform or regular.

Question 6

Sharp force injury

Answer 6

Incision - uniform in depth, absence of bruising, clean and doesnt need widespread debridement
Stab - deep in relation to the skin

Question 7

Firearm injuries

Answer 7

Cavitation formed and recoils back which causes severe displacement of the tissues which is what makes them so lethal.

Question 8

Electric burns

Answer 8

produce distinctive small area of puncture where the electricity has arced into the skin. There is no bleeding etc. Usually on the tips of the fingers.