Fracture patterns in diaphyseal gunshot trauma: role of the bullet’s impact point and angle

• DOI: 10.1007/s00414-025-03488-0
• Publication Date: 2025-04-07T03:19:22Z
• Authors: Nathalie Schwab; Doreen Jost; Xavier Jordana; Jordi Monreal; Xavier Garrido; Pedro Brillas; Ignasi Galtés
• Keywords: Ballistics

Abstract Skeletal trauma assessment is an important task of forensic anthropologists and pathologists. This applies in particular to badly preserved bodies where the soft tissue cannot provide evidence. Yet, interpretation ballistic long bone can be difficult due little conclusive data. Thus, this study explored variability diaphyseal fracture patterns dependent on bullet’s angle point impact. 20 femurs from body donors were embedded Clear Ballistics Gel ® divided into 4 experimental groups: 70° angled shot centre anterior shaft aspect; perpendicular lateral posterior grazing margin medial aspect. In each case, a 9-mm Luger full metal jacket projectile was at distance 2 m impact speed 360 m/s. All fractures examined macroscopically. For comparison, fifth group (perpendicular aspect), previously analysed earlier study, included. Although groups revealed similar characteristics, results suggest location influence pattern. The most dissimilar pattern reproduced shots, only one defect hole seen, instead entry exit like other groups. findings highlight bones may serve as guidelines during skeletal assessment.