Discrete Traits of the Sternum and Ribs: A Useful Contribution to Identification in Forensic Anthropology and Medicine

• NCJ Number: 246084
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 58 Issue: 3 Dated: May 2013 Pages: 571-577
• Author(s): Emeline Verna; Marie-Dominique Piercecchi-Marti, M.D., Ph.D.; Kathia Chaumoitre, M.D., Ph.D.; Christophe Bartoli, M.D., Ph.D.; Georges Leonetti, M.D., Ph.D.; Pascal Adalian, Ph.D.
• Date Published: May 2013
• Length: 7 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Report (Technical Assistance)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This research discusses the observation of discrete traits used in forensic anthropological investigation.

Abstract

During forensic anthropological investigation, biological profile is determined by age, sex, ancestry, and stature. However, several individuals may share the same profile. Observation of discrete traits can yield useful information and contribute to identification. This research establishes the frequency of discrete traits of the sternum and ribs in a modern population in southern France, using 500 computer tomography (CT) scans of individuals aged 15-60 years. Only discrete traits with a frequency lower than 10 percent according to the literature were considered, a total of eight traits. All scans examined were three-dimensional (3D) volume renderings from DICOM images. In this population, the frequency of all the discrete traits was lower than 5 percent. None were associated with sex or age, with the exception of a single trait, the end of the xiphoid process. The findings can usefully be applied for identification purposes in forensic anthropology and medicine. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.