Mueller-matrix tomography as a method of determination of the degree of blood loss in cases of incised-stab wounds in victims of domestic violence

Abstract

Summary: the article considers the possibilities of using the Mueller-matrix tomography method to determine the degree of blood loss due to incised-stab wounds caused during domestic violence. Purpose of the research to develop criteria for assessing the degree of blood loss in cases of incised-stab injuries with massive blood loss caused during domestic violence. Materials and methods. Blood smears from victims of domestic violence with massive blood as a result of incised-stab injuries were examined. Among the victims were women (n=27) aged 18 to 56 years old, with various degrees of blood loss from (500±100) mm3 to (2500±100) mm3 . The research was carried out using a laser polarimeter of a standard scheme. Statistical data processing was carried out using MS® Excel® 2010™ and Statistica® 7.0 applications. Results. The obtained results of the study demonstrate a high level of accuracy (Ac - 82-94%) in determining the degree of blood loss in stab wounds due to domestic violence in the range of blood loss ΔV = (0±2000) mm3 . Conclusions. The method of Müller-matrix polarization microscopy of human blood samples has a potential use in forensic medical practice, in order to establish accurate criteria for the degree of blood loss and severity of bodily injuries and ensure justice, which will contribute to reducing the number of cases of domestic violence.