Pattern of Injuries in Homicidal Ligature Strangulation-A Retrospective Autopsy Based Study

Ligature strangulation is the process of applying constrictive force around the neck by a ligature, the constricting force being an external force of the assailant. Death usually occurs by occlusion of air passage resulting in asphyxia. Pressure effect on vital structures of neck like carotid body or vagus may result in vasodilation, hypotension and vagal inhibition of heart¹.