From evidence to proof: case series application of 3d reconstructions in forensic analysis of dog bite injuries

Abstract

The use of three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction technologies in forensic science is gaining increasing relevance for the documentation and analysis of traumatic injuries. This approach provides an innovative, non-invasive, precise, and reproducible method that is particularly well-suited for evidentiary purposes in judicial contexts.This study presents two forensic cases of suspected death from dog attacks, in which 3D models were reconstructed to analyze bite-related injuries identified on the victims’ bodies, with the aim of distinguishing them from bite marks caused by other species. Specifically, the Dexis 3600 intraoral scanner was used for data acquisition, Agisoft Metashape software was employed for photogrammetric processing and Geomagic Control X was utilized for 3D analysis. In the first case, five bite wounds were analyzed; in the second case, ten lesions were examined. The findings demonstrate that the integration of 3D scanning and photogrammetry in forensic and forensic odontology practice can significantly enhance the accuracy of animal bite mark assessment. This integration provides objective support in both identifying the lesion typology and attributing the injuries to a specific animal species, as well as reconstructing the overall dynamics of the attack an essential aspect of forensic expertanalysis.