A Prospective Autopsy Study of Hanging Deaths Among Individuals Aged 15–60 Years at Tirunelveli Medical College

Background: Hanging is one of the most common methods of suicide worldwide, posing significant forensic andmedico-legal concerns. This study aims to analyze autopsy findings in hanging cases, focusing on ligature marks,types of hanging, and knot positions.Methods: This prospective observational descriptive autopsy-based study was conducted over one year atTirunelveli Government Hospital, Tamil Nadu. A total of 150 cases of hanging were examined. A purposivesampling method was used, including individuals aged 15-60 years. Detailed autopsy findings, including ligaturematerial, neck compression patterns, and other forensic parameters, were recorded and analyzed.Results: The study provides insights into the distribution of hanging cases concerning age, gender, type of hanging,ligature material used, and knot positioning. The forensic observations contribute to understanding the trends andmedico-legal implications associated with hanging deaths.Conclusion: The findings emphasize the need for awareness and preventive measures to address suicide byhanging. This study