The Dead Continue to Teach the Living: Examining the Role of Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Setting of Postmortem Examinations

High-resolution imaging methods are used more frequently in the setting of postmortem investigation. Used for some time in forensics, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are now being evaluated as complementary or even as alternative means of postmortem examination. We revi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of surgical education 2008-05, Vol.65 (3), p.200-205
Main Authors: Stawicki, S. Peter, MD, Gracias, Vicente H., MD, Schrag, Sherwin P., MD, Martin, Niels D., MD, Dean, Anthony J., MD, Hoey, Brian A., MD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Algorithms
autopsy
Autopsy - methods
computed tomography
Humans
imaging autopsy
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
medical education
Medical Knowledge
Practice Based Learning and Improvement
Surgery
surgical education
Systems Based Practice
Tomography, X-Ray Computed
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Summary:High-resolution imaging methods are used more frequently in the setting of postmortem investigation. Used for some time in forensics, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are now being evaluated as complementary or even as alternative means of postmortem examination. We review briefly the history of autopsy and the reasons for the gradual decrease in autopsy rates. An overview of advantages and limitations of modern imaging autopsy techniques is then presented, which includes a discussion of the potential role of imaging autopsy in medical and surgical education. Potential future applications of this technology in postmortem analysis, which includes the incorporation of ultrasound technology, are then discussed.
ISSN:1931-7204
1878-7452
DOI:10.1016/j.jsurg.2007.11.007