The practical and theoretical application of three-dimensional imaging to the analysis of skeletal trauma

Abstract

This research examined current trauma analysis protocols for archaeological and historical skeletal collections and aimed to develop a more transparent, reliable, and objective assessment protocol for analysing the timing of skeletal trauma. This protocol utilised three dimensional surface laser scanned images of skeletal material to assess the timing and nature of skeletal trauma. In conjunction with the development of this protocol, this research also examined the practical implementation and theoretical implications of such a protocol. The research was conducted in four distinct phases. First, Chapter I introduced the topic and thesis hypothesis. Chapters 2 and 3 then examined and re-evaluated past practices, publication trends, current trauma analysis protocols, and bone biomechanics and properties in relation to fracture production. Three dimensional virtual re-presentations of skeletal material were recognised as a potential way forward to identify new and innovative insights into skeletal trauma timing assessment. The second phase of research, Chapter 4, conducted an investigation into the theoretical implications of digitising archaeological and historical skeletal material.