Residual energy dispersal fracturing: A newly proposed term for fractures propagating from sharp‐force trauma

Objectives The identification and interpretation of skeletal trauma is an important topic in osteoarchaeology, forensic anthropology palaeosciences. Trauma analysis a fast-moving sub-discipline with constantly evolving methodological approaches. This paper describes the process particular form fracturing that propagates specifically from floor cut marks proposes new terminology for this subset fractures. Materials Methods terminological gap was identified during re-examination remains minimum 52 decapitated individuals (52 post-cranial 47 cranial remains) found mass grave 10th–11th century CE on Ridgeway Hill near Weymouth Dorset (UK) 2009. Originally analyzed by Oxford Archaeology Ltd., all collection were re-appraised using digital technology to test techniques study. Results During investigation, it has become apparent length chop can be overestimated some conventional because transitions into fracture propagating mark. Discussion To increase awareness these fractures, term residual energy dispersal (RED) fractures proposed as are distinct other radiating arising sharp-blunt-force trauma. ability distinguish RED others potential contribute previously unidentified events surrounding injury.