Forensic Anthropology

[Faline]

Forensic anthropology is a branch of forensic medicine that has as main objective the identification and identity of the human being. Uses knowledge of general anthropology, with a clear role in the criminal jurisdiction. Division classical anthropology distinguishes Social Anthropology and Physical Anthropology. In forensic science is used to Physical Anthropology.


Trauma; gunshot wound trajectories: This individual died from multiple gunshot wounds to the head. The wooden dowels are used to indicate the trajectory of each projectile. The number of wounds and their associated radiating fractures, combined with each missile’s trajectory, can help the anthropologist recreate the firing sequence. Often, information regarding the firing sequence can be used by the prosecutor to speak to the issue of intent. Multiple gunshot wounds, particularly involving close range “coup de grace” wounds to the occiput, are rarely the result of self-defense. These types of wounds, in combination with additional evidence (e.g. bound hands) may be considered aggravating factors in the sentencing phase.



Dental Anthropology:
Specimen No. MR 2. 41 (adult, male) Maxillary alveolar abscess. The robust jaws and large teeth of this individual sustained heavy masticatory forces, a stress that often contributes to the formation of abscesses. The maxillary lateral alveolar crest and wall, at the upper RM1, are discontinuous and the roots of this tooth are exposed. This lesion exhibits classic s of an alveolar (vs. periapical) abscess. Differences in frequency of these two types of abscesses may have implications for understanding dental health of earlier human populations.


Specimen No. SKH - 12 (25-30 year old, male) Dental calculus on lower molar teeth. This slide illustrates another common location for calculus deposits to accumulate -- on the lingual aspect of lower molar teeth. While especially large deposits adhere to the lingual surface of LM2, the lingual surfaces of other cheek teeth are also affected. Note that the buccal aspect of right molar teeth lack deposits. The size, distribution, and microscopic contents of calculus deposits can provide valuable information regarding food habits among prehistoric people.



This ovoid defect is the result of a perforating gunshot wound which exited in the parietal bone near the squamosal suture. The direction of the projectile can often be determined by beveling at the margin of the defect. In this case, the margins are externally beveled, recording the exit of the projectile from inside the cranial cavity. Defects in bone from projectiles may provide clues as caliber, type (e.g. jacketed vs. non-jacketed), range and velocity; the trajectory; and the existence of intermediate targets.


New technology uses CT scans to give skeletal remains a face - and, possibly, an identity.

[Jere]

[alyjo07]

[xthabeast]

Good read

[HeadlessHorseman]

What a cool job this must be.

[Shylock]

[suzie2001]

very interesting thankyou

[Riddla]

That was my first choice as far as career goes. Now I am on track on becoming a physical therapist.

[Shakey]

Originally Posted by Riddla

That was my first choice as far as career goes. Now I am on track on becoming a physical therapist.

The dead don't sue.

[imbok]

Seeing bones always makes me happy. Thanks!!