Trauma Analysis

GMS6351

Core Course
Credits: 3


This course will explain the differences between trauma to soft tissue and trauma to bone and how to distinguish between each. Ante-, peri-, or post-mortem trauma will be compared to natural taphonomic effects and animal scavenging.

Course Objectives:

  • Explain the differences between sharp force trauma, blunt force trauma, and
    gunshot wounds in the human body
  • Know the differences between trauma to soft tissue and trauma to bone
  • Distinguish between ante- or peri-mortem trauma and post-mortem trauma
  • Distinguish between trauma and animal scavenging or predation
  • Understand the principles of taphonomy and how trauma differs

Topics:

  • Module 1: Introduction to Trauma
  • Module 2: Postmortem Changes and Time Since Death
  • Module 3: Sharp Force Trauma
  • Module 4: Blunt Force Trauma
  • Module 5: Gunshot Wounds
  • Module 6: Asphyxial Trauma
  • Module 7: Special Topics on Traumatic Death
  • Module 8: Sexual Trauma
  • Final Exam