ISSN: 0022-1198
CODEN: JFSCA
Page Count: 5

Atypical Gunshot Exit Defects to the Cranial Vault
Berryman, HE
Assistant Professors of Pathology, University of Tennessee,

Francisco, JT
Professor of Pathology, University of Tennessee,

Smith, OC
Assistant Professors of Pathology, University of Tennessee,

Symes, SA
Assistant Morgue Director, Regional Forensic Center,

Hnilica, V
Assistant Professors of Pathology, University of Tennessee,

(Received 5 June 1992; accepted 16 July 1992)

Abstract

Cranial exit wounds typically display external beveling, however, variation has been noted in the literature due to keyhole phenomena and pre-existent fractures. Two cases of atypical exit morphology are presented with features mimicking blunt trauma. In both instances radial fractures created by the exiting impact allowed passage without producing exit beveling. A working knowledge of the biomechanics of bone fracture, radiographs and low power microscopy are essential elements for the proper interpretation of such exit wound fractures.

Keywords:
criminalistics, ballistics, fracture, gunshot, biomechanics, anthropology

Paper ID: JFS13413J
DOI: 10.1520/JFS13413J
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