Imaging in forensic radiology: an illustrated guide for postmortem computed tomography technique and protocols

Area of Science:

• Forensic Medicine
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Forensic radiology is an emerging global subspecialty within forensic medicine.
• Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) and PMCT angiography (PMCTA) are advanced imaging techniques replacing conventional X-rays in forensic investigations.
• Current PMCT and PMCTA methods lack standardization for postmortem imaging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline a recommended standard protocol for postmortem cross-sectional imaging.
• To focus on unenhanced PMCT and PMCTA procedures.
• To facilitate the implementation of high-quality, standardized forensic imaging protocols.

Main Methods:

• Review of current practices in postmortem cross-sectional imaging.
• Development of a standardized protocol for unenhanced PMCT and PMCTA.
• Guidelines for reporting forensic scan results.

Main Results:

• A proposed standard protocol for unenhanced PMCT and PMCTA is presented.
• The protocol aims to standardize postmortem imaging quality.
• Standardization will ensure forensic scans match the quality of clinical scans for legal evidence.

Conclusions:

• Standardized postmortem imaging protocols are crucial for forensic radiology.
• Implementation of this protocol will enhance the reliability of forensic evidence in court.
• This approach supports consistent, high-quality reporting in morgues and forensic practices.