'Relentless and prolonged attack' led to death of Adelaide mother-of-two

Adelaide mother Lana Towers was struck by her partner up to 50 times, leaving 90 injuries, before she died of internal hemorrhaging, a court been told.

Opening statements were heard today at the murder trial of Michael Suve McDonald, Towers' partner.

Towers was allegedly killed in a "relentless and prolonged attack", with McDonald allegedly using his fists and a metal pole.

She suffered extensive internal injuries.

The court was told Towers and McDonald had a "difficult and dysfunctional" relationship.

The trial continues before Justice Tim Stanley in the South Australian Supreme Court.