The handling of bariatric bodies

Increased body mass has occurred in many countries over the past two decades. Morbidly obese individuals are prone to higher rates of cardiovascular, endocrine and malignant disease requiring hospitalization and medical care. A review of problems encountered by ambulance services, hospitals, forensic facilities and funeral service reveals common problems in examination, transport and handling. Strategies used in one area of health to deal with bariatric cases can be adapted for use in other areas. Forensic facilities may require the use bigger body bags, reinforced trolleys and vehicles, with larger refrigerator bays and CT scanning machines. The best option is for purpose built mortuaries designed with lifting hoists and passages, doorways, machinery and autopsy tables that can cope with morbidly obese bodies. Unnecessary handling and lifting of these bodies should be minimized, and so the admissions area, cool room storage and dissection theatre should be in close proximity to each other.