Forensic autopsy in a pathology training program.

Objective: To review a satellite facility's autopsy experience with coroner's cases, to determine the volume and type of cases performed; and to evaluate the teaching value of forensic autopsies in a pathology residency training program.

Design: A retrospective review of 65 Los Angeles County Coroner cases performed at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, Calif, from 1992 to 1996 was undertaken. Data were retrieved from cause of death statements, medical report forms, and autopsy reports.

Results: In the 65 coroner's cases performed from 1992 to 1996, ages ranged from 6 months to 97 years. During this time period, the cases comprised 6.1% (65/1059) of all autopsies at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and 11.3% (65/575) of autopsies excluding fetal and neonatal examinations. Manners of death in the cases were accidental (53.8%), natural (40.0%), suicide (4.6%), and undetermined (1.5%). The most common cause of death in natural deaths was related to heart disease (12/26 [46.2%]). Motor vehicle collisions were the most common cause of death (15/35 [42.9%]) in the accidental group. The remainder of the causes of death in both the natural and accidental groups encompassed a wide variety of pathologic processes and injuries.

Conclusions: Forensic autopsies in a pathology residency training program have the potential to supplement a diminishing number of hospital autopsies. A wide variety of diseases are encountered through coroner's cases. Forensic autopsies contribute to residency training by providing experience in trauma cases and a variety of medical disorders.