Correction to: Fracture patterns of the hyoid-larynx complex after fatal trauma on the neck: retrospective radiological postmortem analysis of 284 cases (International Journal of Legal Medicine, (2020), 134, 4, (1465-1473), 10.1007/s00414-019-02241-8)

Henri M. de Bakker, Moritz V. Warmbrunn, Peggy van den Biggelaar, Vidija Soerdjbalie-Maikoe, Bernadette S. de Bakker

Research output: Contribution to journalComment/Letter to the editorAcademic

3 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

Purpose Fatal trauma on the neck occurs frequent in forensic cases and often results in fractures of the hyoid-larynx complex. The aim of the present study is to provide an overview of fractures in the hyoid-larynx complex that occur due to fatal trauma on the neck and can be observed by radiological evaluation. Methods Radiological images from a forensic radiological database created in the Groene Hart Hospital, Gouda, the Netherlands were used for analysis. Hyoid-larynx complexes were explanted in 284 individuals who accordingly to the forensic pathologist allegedly died from fatal trauma on the neck. These explants were imaged with conventional X-rays in eight directions and a CT scan. Radiological images were analyzed for fractures, dislocations, joints, and anatomical variations by a trained analyst and a radiologist. Results In 281/284 cases, the hyoid bone and, in 252/284 cases, the thyroid cartilage could be assessed. In 56 victims (20%), the hyoid bone was fractured, 55 times in the greater horn, 1 fracture in the body. The calcified superior horn of the thyroid showed a fracture in 101 victims (40%). The calcified cricoid cartilage was fractured in one case. Multiple fractures were found in 31/284 cases (11%). Joints between the greater horn and body of the hyoid were present in 74%.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1105-1113
Number of pages9
JournalInternational Journal of Legal Medicine
Volume135
Issue number3
Early online date2020
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2021

Keywords

  • Forensic radiology
  • Hyoid fracture
  • Hyoid-larynx complex
  • Postmortem computed tomography
  • Thyroid fracture

Cite this