International Journal of Forensic Medicine

Background: Hanging is one of the most common methods of suicidal asphyxial deaths worldwide. Careful postmortem examination provides crucial insights into the medico-legal aspects, manner of death, and cause of mortality.

Objective: To analyze the demographic profile and postmortem findings in cases of death due to hanging.

Methods: This study was conducted on 130 medico-legal autopsy cases of death due to hanging that were examined at the Department of Forensic Medicine, Community Based Medical College Hospital, Mymensingh, Bangladesh, over a defined period from July 2024 to July 2025. A retrospective study was conducted on 130 medico-legal autopsy cases of death by hanging, recorded between [insert study years]. The study population included 80 males and 50 females, aged between 20-65 years. Data regarding demographic distribution, external and internal postmortem findings, and associated medico-legal observations were analyzed.

Results: Out of 130 cases, 61.5% were males and 38.5% females. The most affected age group was 21-40 years (?60%). Classical ligature mark over the neck was present in 100% cases, with oblique, non-continuous impressions being the most frequent. Petechial hemorrhages were seen in 72% of cases, while protrusion of the tongue was noted in 45%. Salivary dribbling was observed in 32%. Internally, neck muscle congestion was seen in 68%, carotid artery intimal tears in 14%, and hyoid bone/thyoid cartilage fracture in 18% (more common in >40 years).

Conclusion: Hanging remains a predominant method of suicide, particularly among young adults. Postmortem findings such as oblique ligature marks, petechial hemorrhages, and salivary dribbling strongly support the diagnosis. Careful differentiation from other forms of strangulation is vital for medico-legal purposes.