Current status of routine post-mortem CT in Melbourne, Australia
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RADIOLOGY REVIEW
Current status of routine post-mortem CT in Melbourne, Australia C. O’Donnell Æ A. Rotman Æ S. Collett Æ N. Woodford
Accepted: 19 June 2007 / Published online: 10 October 2007 Ó Humana Press Inc. 2007
Abstract In May 2005, a multidetector computed tomography (CT) scanner was installed into the mortuary of the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM). Since that time most biological material admitted to the institute has been scanned. This article provides an overview of the experience gained and difficulties encountered by participants in this project. Discussion is presented on the incorporation of routine CT imaging into autopsy procedures, application of CT in forensic research, and how we believe the use of cross-sectional imaging will evolve in forensic investigation of the deceased. Keywords Forensic radiology Computed tomography Mortuary Autopsy Routine use
Introduction Radiographic examination of the deceased, including plain films and fluoroscopy/image intensification, are wellestablished procedures used by forensic pathologists in their determination of death causation, identification of the deceased, and the localization of foreign material such a bullet fragments. Preparation of individual specimen radiographs (cervical spine and ribs), localization of gas collections (pneumothorax and air embolism), and documentation of fractures, particularly in those areas not easily seen during the standard autopsy, are other applications frequently used by pathologists.
A number of authors [1–3] have reported attempts to use more-sophisticated imaging techniques from clinical medicine, yet limitations, including poor computed tomography (CT) image quality and limited access, have hindered their early success and popularity. More-recent advances in multidetector CT technology have improved image quality and coverage allowing for detailed wholebody analysis of the deceased. There are now several centers throughout the world investigating the application of CT and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in a forensic environment [4–9] including routine scanning of the deceased using a co-located mortuary CT scanner [10] as well as mobile CT units [11]. This paper is an overview of the post-mortem CT service instituted at the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM) in May 2005. Most deceased persons admitted to VIFM since July 2005 have had whole-body CT imaging irrespective of whether autopsy is contemplated. With annual admissions of *5,000 and autopsy numbers of *2,500, a large experience has already been gathered. Commentary on the impact of the CT scanner on service provision at VIFM is provided in this article by a forensic pathologist with specific interest in post-mortem imaging, a consultant forensic radiologist, and a mortuary technician with CT radiographic training and experience. Issues including the integration of CT into established autopsy practice, the role of CT in research, and the legal implications will be discussed.
VIFM CT scanner selection and implementation
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