Forensic Cases in the Emergency Department: Associations Between Life-Threatening Risk, Medical Treatability, and Patient Outcomes

Yildirim H., Kaya M.

DIAGNOSTICS, vol.15, no.15, pp.1-12, 2025 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)

  • Publication Type: Article / Article
  • Volume: 15 Issue: 15
  • Publication Date: 2025
  • Doi Number: 10.3390/diagnostics15111416
  • Journal Name: DIAGNOSTICS
  • Journal Indexes: Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Scopus, Academic Search Premier, EMBASE, INSPEC, Directory of Open Access Journals
  • Page Numbers: pp.1-12
  • Kütahya Health Sciences University Affiliated: Yes

Abstract

Abstract: Background: This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and forensic characteris-

tics of cases admitted to a high-volume tertiary emergency department, focusing on se-

verity-based classification using treatability with simple medical intervention (SMI) and

life-threatening status. Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 3014 forensic cases over

one year. Patients were classified based on injury severity, anatomical region, and clinical

outcomes. Documentation practices and report types were also reviewed. Results: Among

all the cases, 60.4% were treatable with SMI, and 10.5% were identified as life threatening.

Notably, all patients who died (1.3% mortality) were in the life-threatening group, and

none of the SMI-treated patients died, underscoring the accuracy of early triage and align-

ment between documentation and outcomes. Road traffic accidents were the leading

cause of life-threatening injury and hospitalization, while assault cases were predomi-

nantly minor and managed conservatively. Seasonal variation peaked in July, and sex-

based differences revealed a higher SMI eligibility among female patients. Final forensic

reports were more frequently issued in SMI cases, while preliminary reports were pre-

dominant in severe trauma. Conclusions: Severity-based classification using SMI and life-

threatening categories offers valuable insight for clinical decision-making and forensic

documentation. Integrating structured triage, anatomical injury mapping, and standard-

ized report templates can enhance both patient safety and legal reliability.