ABSTRACT
This chapter on skeletal trauma covers the changes that may happen to the skeleton due to bone fracture, joint dislocation, surgical procedures, punitive or violent practices, or cultural practices that result in alteration in bone morphology. Within the group of fractures, a separate discussion is included on blunt force trauma, sharp force trauma, and projectile trauma. The surgical procedures covered here include trepanation and amputation, while punitive or violent practices cover scalping, decapitation, and strangulation. Finally, the cultural practices that result in abnormal bone morphology focus on cranial modification and foot binding. A brief discussion of biomechanics, trauma timing, and healing, as well as distinguishing between accidental versus non-accidental trauma is also given.
