During the drop there was an audible crack indicating that Saddam's neck was broken. After Saddam was suspended for a few minutes, the doctor present listened with a stethoscope for a heartbeat. After he detected nothing, the rope was cut, and the body was placed in a coffin.
As the execution took place, a loud cracking noise was audible, indicating that Saddam's neck had been severely injured. After a short pause, the doctor present examined the body with a stethoscope for any signs of life, but found none. The rope was then cut, and the body was subsequently placed in a coffin.