Identification of skeletal fractures before and after removal of soft tissue: a case report

Evaluation of decomposed individuals by forensic pathologists is a common occurrence; however, complete removal of soft tissue to closely examine the skeletal elements of these individuals is not common. The decomposition process can mask injuries and impair examination of the skeleton. The case presented by the authors illustrates how complete removal of soft tissue from individuals who have undergone advanced decomposition is necessary to identify all fractures of the skeletal elements. Although removal of the soft tissue from all decomposed remains is not possible, this case shows how carefully the choice of whether to deflesh these remains should be made.