What was the hyoid bone finding and why is it disputed?

The hyoid bone is a horseshoe-shaped bone in the neck that can fracture during strangulation and, more rarely, during hanging. Forensic pathologist Michael Baden, retained by Epstein’s family, reviewed the autopsy findings and stated that the pattern of injuriesincluding multiple fractures to the hyoid bone and other neck structureswas more consistent with homicidal strangulation than with suicide by hanging. The New York City Medical Examiner completed the official autopsy and ruled the cause of death as suicide by hanging. The ME stated that hanging can cause hyoid fractures, particularly in older individuals. Baden’s conclusion contradicts the official ruling but has not been accepted by authorities; no homicide investigation resulted.