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Updated: Jun 24, 2026

Image Rendering Techniques in Postmortem Computed Tomography: Evaluation of Biological Health and Profile in Stranded Cetaceans
Published on: September 27, 2020
Emergency radiology without the radiologist: the forensic perspective.
M Di Paolo1, B Guidi, E Picano
1Section of Legal Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy. marcodipaolo@med.unipi.it
Teleradiology use in emergencies carries risks. Failure to consult radiologists on transmitted X-rays led to two deaths from missed diagnoses in road accident victims.
Area of Science:
- Forensic pathology
- Radiology
- Teleradiology
Background:
- Teleradiology enables remote radiological consultations.
- Emergency department protocols dictate teleradiology activation.
Observation:
- Two autopsy cases revealed unexpected deaths post-road accidents.
- Missed cervical fractures and delayed aortic rupture were identified.
- Neither condition was diagnosed prior to autopsy.
Findings:
- Lethal outcomes resulted from un-reported emergency department X-rays.
- Teleradiology services were available but not utilized.
- Physician selection determined teleradiology activation.
Implications:
- Excluding radiologists from teleradiology workflows poses significant risks.
- Proper utilization of teleradiology is critical for patient safety.
- Case reviews highlight the need for clear teleradiology protocols.
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