Forensic Medical Evaluation of Injuries Due to Dog Bites: 5-Year Descriptive Retrospective Study

Objective: This study aims to analyze the forensic medical characteristics of injuries caused by dog bites, demographic patterns, injury severity, and related legal implications in cases evaluated at a forensic medicine unit. Material and Methods: This retrospective study examines forensic reports and hospital records of dog bite cases admitted to Eskişehir Osmangazi University Forensic Medicine Department between 2019-2023. Cases were analyzed based on age, gender, site of injury, severity, forensic reporting details, and treatment outcomes. Statistical analyses were performed using the chi-square test and frequency distribution, with significance set at p<0.05. Results: A total of 108 cases were evaluated, of which 65.7% (n=71) were male. The most affected age group was <18 years (47.2%), with injuries most commonly occurring in the extremities (71.5%). Head and neck injuries were significantly more frequent in children than in adults (p=0.001). While the majority of cases were treated as outpatients (77.8%), 22.2% required hospitalization, and 14.8% underwent surgical intervention. Conclusion: Dog bite injuries have both medical and forensic implications, especially in pediatric cases. Our findings highlight the need for improved legal regulations, preventive strategies, and increased public awareness regarding responsible pet ownership and the forensic handling of dog bite cases.