11/28/2023 0 Comments Bone markings of the skull![]() ![]() For exit wounds, the inner edge is sharply defined and the outer margin is beveled. Exit wounds are typically larger than the entrance, with fractures extending from the exit area. The outer edge of the entrance would be sharp and the inner margin beveled due to the direction of the force. Entrance wounds are characterized by a circular hole with fractures extending from the hole in a "sunburst" pattern. Smithsonian photo.īullets (projectiles) fracture "fresh" bone in characteristic ways, so that the direction of the projectile and its size can often be determined. Gunshot Wounds Gunshot entrance wound (left) and exit wound (right). Individuals in automobile accidents often fracture bones in the face, pelvis, and lower legs. For example, an impact site on the skull can record the shape of the implement that inflicted the blow. Sometimes the pattern of bone breakage (which bones are affected and how they are fractured) can identify the weapon or object that caused the damage, along with the circumstances of the injury. Blunt Force Cranium with evidence of damage caused by a hammer. X-rays may be needed to help interpret healed or perimortem trauma, including gunshot wounds. Most skeletal injuries are visible upon gross examination. ![]() "Dry" or old bone breaks differently than "fresh" bone. At death ( perimortem) or after death ( postmortem), no healing occurs. If a break happens during life ( antemortem), the bone can heal or repair itself. Traumaīone may break due to accidental or intentional injury. Bones and teeth of individuals lacking good nutrition can be identified visually and by X-ray. Nutrient deficiencies result in weak or abnormally formed bones. A diet with sufficient nutrients, especially calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D, is required to build strong bones and teeth. Smithsonian photoĭiet has a direct impact on the skeleton. Diet and Nutrition Upper jaw bone with enamel pits showing heavy wear. Techniques under development identify diseases in bone through molecular analysis. Diseases in bone are identified through visual and X-ray examination. Diseased bone forms abnormally or loses tissue, leaving holes or lesions. Illnesses that affect the skeleton tend to be chronic conditions. Disease Osteoporotic femur of 84-year old woman on the right. The right arm bones of someone who is right-handed may be larger than the left. The hips and knees of runners may develop joint deterioration. The bones of body builders show well-developed ridges where muscles attach. Some occupations and habits modify skeletons. ![]() Similarly, inactivity can cause bone loss, or atrophy - as pictured here. The bone may thicken, modify in shape, or become roughened where the muscles connect. Repetitive, heavy use of certain muscles can affect the bones to which they are attached. Smithsonian photoīones change size and shape in response to forces placed on them. Activity and Use Underdeveloped bones of a bedridden male. Postmortem marks (left on bones after death) can explain events surrounding that person's death and burial. It can also tell us about a person's general health in life, or the cause of death. Evidence of disease or injury (trauma) in a skeleton can help identify the deceased. Many things can leave marks on or in bones. ![]()
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