Can computed tomography replace or supplement autopsy?

Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) has been integrated into the practice of many forensic pathologists. To evaluate the utility of PMCT in supplementing and/or supplanting medicolegal autopsy, we conducted a prospective double-blind comparison of abnormal findings reported by the autopsy pathologist with those reported by a radiologist reviewing the PMCT. We reviewed 890 cases: 167 with blunt force injury (BFI), 63 with pediatric trauma (under 5 years), 203 firearm injuries, and 457 drug poisoning deaths.

Postmortem Changes as Documented in Postmortem Computed Tomography Scans.

The benefits and uses of postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) have been well documented in the forensic pathology and radiology literature in recent years and research into its utility continue in earnest. Opinions and policies regarding who actually interprets the PMCT scans vary between institutions, but in general, scans will be read by a forensic pathologist, a clinical radiologist, or a clinical radiologist with a special interest or training in postmortem imaging. Differences between clinical computed tomography scans and PMCT scans have been well documented and knowledge of these differences, typically those due to postmortem changes, is essential to the reader of the PMCT scan so as to minimize the risk of misinterpretation and, potentially, misdiagnoses.

Lightning deaths: a retrospective review of New Mexico's cases, 1977-2009.

To better understand lightning deaths, a retrospective review of electronic records from New Mexico's Office of the Medical Investigator database was performed between 1977 and 2009 to update and assess current risk factors. Information on demographics, circumstances, autopsy, and death certificates were collected and analyzed. Fifty-four decedents were identified, ages 2-71 years old (mean 34 years old), 42 males and 12 females.