Journal Published Online: 01 April 1980
Volume 25, Issue 2

“Typical” Basal Skull Fracture of Both Petrous Bones" An Unreliable Indicator of Head Impact Site

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

A basilar skull fracture that extends along both petrous bones is generally considered to be a response to impacts to the lateral aspects of the head. This generalization is not warranted as such a fracture often results from impacts to any point around the base of the skull or to the chin. These facts were appreciated as long ago as 1905 but present-day literature does not adequately reflect them. Eight carefully selected autopsy cases of fatal blunt head injury with well-documented single head impact sites and bilateral petrous bone fractures are presented. They illustrate the variety of impact sites that may produce bilateral petrous bone skull fractures.

Author Information

Harvey, FH
The University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque
Jones, AM
The University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque
Pages: 7
Price: $25.00
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Stock #: JFS12123J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS12123J