J Forensic Sci. 2026 Mar 19. doi: 10.1111/1556-4029.70317. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
Suicide is a complex phenomenon triggered by multiple factors. Cut throat injuries as a method of suicide are rare compared with other methods. This method is most commonly observed in young adult males in developing countries and is often associated with economic hardship. In injuries resulting from suicide attempts, hesitation marks may be present, and these marks assist forensic medicine in determining whether an injury is suicidal. We deemed it appropriate to present the general characteristics of suicidal cut throat injuries and the unique nature of our case in this article. A 71-year-old female patient, admitted to the emergency department with a cut throat injury, underwent immediate surgery for primary repair. Alongside our case, cut throat injuries and their treatment were evaluated, and a retrospective review of suicidal cut throat injury cases in the PubMed database from 2000 to 2025 was conducted to compare their frequency, patterns, and outcomes. Suicidal cut throat injuries were predominantly observed in young adult males, in countries with poor socioeconomic conditions, particularly where unemployment and substance abuse are prevalent. Psychiatric disorders and stress were identified as other significant triggering factors. Throat incision injuries affect many vital structures within a limited anatomical area, making prompt and effective treatment crucial. Early intervention through a multidisciplinary approach leads to a reduction in mortality, morbidity, hospital stay, and treatment costs. Furthermore, rigorous treatment and follow-up of psychiatric patients can prevent numerous suicide attempts.
PMID:41852201 | DOI:10.1111/1556-4029.70317
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