Accidental neck injury by wood cutting machine: A case report

D. K. Atal*, S. K. Naik and A. Murari

Department of Forensic Medicine, Lady Hardinge Medical College and Smt. S. K. Hospital, New Delhi-110001, India.

*Corresponding author. E-mail: drdevinderatal_fmt@rediffmail.com.

Tel: 91-11-23408157/23408158(O).

Accepted 26 January, 2010

   Abstract

Lacerated wounds of the neck can be of any origin- accidental, homicidal, or suicidal. In this case report, a case has been presented where a part of metallic saw of a wood cutting machine flied as a projectile and cut the throat of a middle aged male who was operating the machine inside metro construction area. Death occurred as result of exsanguination caused by the injuries to major blood vessels of the neck. In the case we presented, although the cut in the neck initially suggested homicide, it was found to have occurred as a result of an accident after the autopsy and death scene investigation.

Key words: Accidental neck injury, wood cutting machine, saw blade.