Pontomedullary Lacerations in Falls from a HeightA Retrospective Autopsy Study

• NCJ Number: 240271
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 57 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2012 Pages: 654-657
• Author(s): Vladimir Zivkovic, M.D., Ph.D.; Dragan Babic, M.D., Ph.D.; Danijela Djonic, M.D., Ph.D.; Tatjana Atanasijevic, M.D., Ph.D.; Marija Djuric, M.D., Ph.D.; Slobadan Nikolic, M.D., Ph.D.
• Date Published: May 2012
• Length: 4 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Study/Research)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of Brainstem pontomedullary laceration (PML) in falls from a height.

Abstract

Brainstem pontomedullary laceration (PML) in falls from a height appears as isolated cases and usually in feet-first impacts with a ring fracture. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of PML in falls from a height, as well as the frequency of concomitant head and neck injuries. Out of 261 cases, PML was present in 40. An impact to the chin, as well as a feet- or buttocks-first impact, most often led to PML owing to transmission of the impact force. Also, a lateral, frontal, or posterior head impact, with subsequent hinge fracture, as well as the frontoposterior hyperextension of the head associated with an upper spine fracture, could be possible mechanisms of PML in falls from a height. The jawbone and other facial bones act as shock absorbers, and their fracture diminishes energy transfer toward the skull and protects the brain and brainstem from injury. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.