The physiology of sudden violent death.

Abstract

The physiology behind sudden violent death is considered in the light of information from a wide variety of clinical, experimental, forensic and veterinary sources. Physiological causes can be classified under the headings of blood loss; asphyxia; electrocution; tissue loss; destruction of brain; disconnection of brain; and poisoning. Death, although sudden, is not necessarily instantaneous; asphyxia and electrocution take some time to kill the subjects. The chemistry of dying, death and changes post mortem, needs more research in order to design further rational resuscitation procedures.