Strangulation: A conceptual approach for courtroom presentation

Research in the area of asphyxia is desperately needed in order to understand better the pathophysiology of external neck compression and the issues of force and duration as they relate to intent to kill. The above-described courtroom teaching tool might appear to be an oversimplification; however, this approach has proven successful in recent trials in explaining abstract medical concepts to jurors. In addition, courtroom time and confusing and tedious cross-examinations of forensic pathologists by lawyers have been reduced. Until experimental research is conducted to elucidate the pathophysiology of external neck compression and the issues of force and duration, the courtroom teaching tool presented herein should assist forensic pathologists in their attempts to explain difficult medical concepts to lay people during criminal proceedings.