Detection of foreign particles in traumatized skin.

The aims of the medico-legal investigation of wounds are a description of the wound morphology, the characterization of the force used and finally identification of the weapon. The demonstration of foreign particles, such as wood particles, paint fragments, synthetic materials, sand or gravel particles, powder residues and rust particles, in the depth of a wound or in the surrounding area can be of great value. In the present series of experiments the suitability of imaging methods (low energy X-ray imaging, direct X-ray magnification, nuclear magnetic resonance) for the detection of relevant foreign particles has been investigated.