Virtopsy and Living Individuals Evaluation Using Computed Tomography in Forensic Diagnostic Imaging

Semin Ultrasound CT MR. 2019 Feb;40(1):67-78. doi: 10.1053/j.sult.2018.10.013. Epub 2018 Oct 27.

Abstract

The applications of forensic radiology involve both Virtopsy both studies on living people - to demonstrate bone age, search for foreign bodies, such as voluntary injection of drug ovules or surgical sponges accidentally forgotten, to assess gunshot wounds, to evaluate injuries by road accidents, and cases of violence or abuse (both in adults and in children). Computed tomography is the most used imaging tool used in forensic pathology and its indications are mainly focused on cases of unnatural deaths or when a crime is suspected. It is preferred over the standard autopsy in selected cases, such as in putrefied, carbonized or badly damaged bodies; or as a preliminary evaluation in mass disasters.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Age Determination by Skeleton / methods*
  • Autopsy
  • Child
  • Foreign Bodies / diagnostic imaging*
  • Forensic Medicine / methods*
  • Humans
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*
  • Wounds, Gunshot / diagnostic imaging*
  • Wounds, Nonpenetrating / diagnostic imaging*