Question

This is seen in the postmortem examination of which type of asphyxia:

• A. Throttling
• B. Smothering
• C. Hanging
• D. Garrotting

Hint:

Smothering results from the obstruction of the airway by a foreign object or material, and postmortem examination often reveals signs of airway congestion.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The correct answer to the question regarding the type of asphyxia observed in a postmortem examination is Smothering. 

In a postmortem examination, signs indicative of smothering asphyxia may include the presence of foreign materials in the airways, facial congestion, and absence of external neck injuries, since smothering often involves covering the nostrils and mouth without external compression of the neck.

To differentiate among types of asphyxia:

• Throttling: Characterized by marks of external violence on the neck, often with finger marks or bruises due to manual strangulation.
• Smothering: Usually lacks significant neck injuries but may show signs of obstruction to the mouth and nose, such as foam in the airways.
• Hanging: Typically results in neck ligature marks with suspension, often leading to neck dislocation or compression.
• Garrotting: Involves ligature strangulation, causing deep-set marks on the neck without suspension.