Jailhouse suicide is commonly attempted by hanging. The cases of 2 prisoners, who had attempted suicide & were subsequently treated at a trauma centre, are provided. Both patients demonstrated problems related to hypoxic encephalopathy, fluid & electrolyte disturbances, & mental status change, all as a result of the attempted hanging. The patients’ course in the hospital illustrate some salient features in managing this patient population. (8 refs.) (RM)