NCJ Number
228246
Journal
Forensic Magazine Volume: 6 Issue: 4 Dated: August/September 2009 Pages: 18-21
Date Published
September 2009
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article briefly discusses the challenges and solutions facing postmortem CT/MRI imaging (necro-radiology) within forensic sciences.
Abstract
Today, no postmortem radiologic subspecialty exists in forensic sciences, and without special training, postmortem CT interpretations can easily be inaccurate. If clinical radiologists, who are seldom exposed to postmortem cross-sectional imaging, adhere to the rules of clinical radiological analysis, they are at risk of misinterpreting postmortem findings. In examining potential solutions, it is recommended that radiologists work in a cooperative environment with forensic pathologists, creating a subspecialty called necro-radiology. However, in order for necro-radiology to flourish and grow as a subspecialty, recognition by the governing radiological boards is required. Also, while there is no disputing the overall value of postmortem CT, its acceptance is waning with reasons generally economic in nature. Even though CT will be used more and more in the future as part of postmortem examination, its progress will be slow.