Autopsy Notes Forensic Science

What does the word autopsy mean? To “see for yourself”

What is the purpose of an autopsy? To determine the cause of death It can also lead us to know how a person lived (i.e were they a drinker, smoker,etc.)

Coroner vs. Medical Examiner They are not the same thing! A medical examiner performs the autopsy and is a certified forensic pathologist. They require years of schooling and a medical degree A coroner is an elected official. Coroners collect the deceased and lead investigations into the cause of death

Requesting an Autopsy Autopsies are performed for legal or medical purposes Sudden/unexpected death Cases where there is suspicion of foul play, medical malpractice, etc.

“This is the place where death rejoices to teach those who live.” Usually written in Latin in the autopsy room What do you think it means?

The Autopsy Process: Step 1 Examine the outside of the body Looking for signs of strangulation, bruising, markings, etc. Any clues that could lead the pathologist to determine the cause of death or sequence of events leading up to death

Step 2: Incisions Ear to Ear incision- opens up the skull to remove the brain for testing and examination Y-Shaped incision- opens up the chest cavity by cutting from each shoulder down to the pubic bone

Determining Cause of Death Pathologists are looking for any abnormalities when examining a body inside and out

Examining the skull A vibrating saw is used to open the cranium because it is strong enough to cut through the skull without damaging the soft tissue of the brain

Examining the Chest Organs The pathologist will cut through the sternum and peel back the skin exposing the ribs and abdominal cavity. Fluid and tissue samples may be taken After any organ is removed the pathologist will save a section in preservative solution

Weighing the Organs Small organs are weighed on a triple beam balance while larger organs are weighed on a grocery scale Why weigh organs?

Abnormalities in the Liver Cirrhosis of the Liver: “Fatty Liver” Cirrhosis is a condition in which the liver slowly deteriorates and malfunctions due to chronic injury For women, consuming two to three drinks—including beer and wine—per day and for men, three to four drinks per day, can lead to liver damage and cirrhosis.

Stitching the Body Up The last step is to replace any organs not being preserved for further testing and stitching back up the Y-shaped and ear to ear incision The body is washed and taken to the funeral home to be prepared to services