Forensic Autopsy

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What is an autopsy? An autopsy – also known as a post-mortem examination- is a specialized surgical procedure that consists of a complete examination of a corpse to determine the cause and manner of death and to evaluate diseases or injuries that may be present. Autopsies are performed for either legal or medical purposes. These types of autopsies are called forensic and clinical. Forensic autopsy is when the cause of death may be a criminal matter, while a clinical autopsy is performed to find the medical cause of death and is used in cases of unknown death or for research purposes. (https://www.boundless.com/users/176518/textbooks/biology-the-unity-and-diversity-of-life/human-anatomy-and-physiology-introduction-31/clinical-cases-184/autopsy-671-10153/) …show more content…

They are performed to get more insight into pathological processes and determine what factors contributed to a patient’s death. There are two parts of the physical examination of the body: the external and internal examination. Toxicology, biochemical tests and/or genetic testing are done also. (https://www.boundless.com/users/176518/textbooks/biology-the-unity-and-diversity-of-life/human-anatomy-and-physiology-introduction-31/clinical-cases-184/autopsy-671-10153/) During the external examination, the person responsible for handling, cleaning, and moving the body is often called a diener, the German word for servant. After the body is received, it is photographed. The examiner takes notes of the clothing and their position on the body before they are removed. Next, any evidence such as residue, flakes of paint, or other material is collected from the external surfaces of the body. Ultraviolet light may be used to go over the body surface for any evidence not visible to the naked eye. Samples of hair and nails, and the body may also be radiographically imaged. …show more content…

The internal examination consist of inspecting of the internal organs of the body for evidence of trauma or other indications of the cause of death. (https://www.boundless.com/users/176518/textbooks/biology-the-unity-and-diversity-of-life/human-anatomy-and-physiology-introduction-31/clinical-cases-184/autopsy-671-10153/) An important component of the autopsy is the reconstitution of the body such that it can be viewed, by the relatives of the deceased following the procedure. After the examination, the body has an open and empty chest cavity with chest flaps open on both sides, the top of the skull is missing, and the skull flaps are pulled over the face and neck.

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