Evaluation of Permanent Cicatrix in Face Concept on Injury Cases

Abstract

Objective: This study has been conducted in order to define the differences between measurable variables of cicatrixes diagnosed as permanent cicatrix on face by Forensic Medicine Counsil and the cicatrixes which were not defined by this category by Forensic Medicine and also to evaluate the diagnostic value by other physicians. Material and Method: This study was conducted by using descriptive methods retrospectively from the reports drawn by the cases (n:1739) for whom Forensic Medicine was asked to provide an opinion about the diaognisos of permanent cicatrix on face. Results:The cicatrixes occurred as a result of traumas that are lighter complexion than shin and/or dented below shin level significantly increase the permanent cicatrix on face diagnostics. There was 22% coherence between the reports concluded by other physicians and the reports concluded by the Council. The diagnostic value of the reports concluded by other physicians on determining permanent cicatrix on face was calculated as 67.1%. According to permanent cicatrix on face characteristics, the length of the scar was determined as 32 mm and width of the cicatrix as 1 mm. Conclusion: When diagnosing cicatrixes and whether or not they have the permanent cicatrix on face characteristics, physicians should pay attention if the scar length is measured as 32 mm and if it is lighter complexion than shin and/or dented below shin level. This poses great importance in terms of preventing physical and moral claim losses of cases, protecting the physicians against malpractice accusations who treated the every phase of the trauma, and shortening the legal process.