Demonstration and interpretation of bridging vein ruptures in cases of infantile subdural bleedings

J Forensic Sci. 2001 Jan;46(1):85-93.

Abstract

Report of two cases of lethal infantile subdural bleedings (SDB). Bridging vein (BV) ruptures were directly proven as the source of the (minimal) SDB by a postmortem X-ray. In the controversial discussion concerning the causes of infantile SDB, proof of the occurrence of several BV ruptures is seen as an important sign of a trauma of significant degree. Although infantile SDB undoubtedly can result from accidental as well as intentional injuries, and therefore, the SDB itself does not allow far-reaching conclusions as to the cause of injury, the presence of several BV ruptures combined with an SDB of insignificant volume, in an infant dead or in a deep coma on clinical presentation, is not compatible with the supposition of a minor fall as the cause. We have not observed such findings as the result of a minor accidental event for more than 15 years.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Accidents
  • Cause of Death
  • Cerebral Veins / pathology*
  • Child Abuse / diagnosis
  • Female
  • Forensic Anthropology
  • Hematoma, Subdural / diagnosis
  • Hematoma, Subdural / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Male
  • Rupture