NCJ Number
214159
Date Published
2006
Length
31 pages
Annotation
This discussion of the forensic aspects of radiology (x-rays) focuses on the identification of human remains, determination of the cause or manner of death, the analysis of skeletal injuries, drowning, gunshot wounds, and physical abuse.
Abstract
When antemortem radiographs of a presumed decedent exist and are accessible, similar postmortem images of unknown human remains can be produced for comparison. When there is no information on the existence of antemortem radiographs of a likely victim, the whole body should be subjected to radiographic imaging in the event that some type of antemortem radiographs are later obtained. Identification of a victim can result when the antemortem radiographs of a presumed victim match a distinctive condition shown on postmortem radiographs. The chapter discusses how to conduct radiographic identification procedures when mass casualties are involved. Radiographic imaging can also be helpful in forensic investigations into the features of bone fractures and what might have caused them, sharp-force injuries, the presence of foreign objects in the body, drowning, and burning. The radiologic examination of gunshot injuries can assist in determining the location of a bullet that does not pass through the body, the number of bullets, caliber, the direction and angle of fire, the type of bullet, and the distance from which the shot was fired. Another category of cases that can benefit from radiological imaging consists of the physical abuse of a child, an intimate partner, or an elderly person. 32 photographic exhibits and 73 references