The advantage of the virtual forensic autopsy - A new approach which could benefit forensic expertise

Abstract

We aimed to assess the accuracy and advantages of postmortem CT examination and three-dimensional (3D) view of the cadaver with the Sectra Visualization Table compared to the full conventional autopsy of a forensic suicidal case. Our survey concerned unusual case of self-strangulation where a body was found in the stage of mummification with a nylon cable tie around the neck and another around the feet. The case was initially determined as a homicide, but later reconsidered a suicide based on objective scene investigation, virtual autopsy and the positions of knots. Unlike the physical autopsy in case of mummification 3D examination does not alter evidence and can revisit the body for additional investigation.

Keywords: Post-mortem CT examination; Self-strangulation; Virtual autopsy.