Cervical spine involvement in a challenging case of accidental strangulation
Although strangulation is generally homicidal, the scientific literature reports several cases in which it is suicidal or even accidental. The former eventuality is particularly interesting because extremely atypical ligatures (such as locks of hair), complex dynamics, and uncommon findings can be involved. Only a meticulous evaluation of the body and of both direct and circumstantial evidence can help in the complex differential diagnosis that includes murder, suicide, and accident. In accidental strangulation, the number and severity of injuries depend on the magnitude of applied force.