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Image Rendering Techniques in Postmortem Computed Tomography: Evaluation of Biological Health and Profile in Stranded Cetaceans
Published on: September 27, 2020
Role of post-mortem multi-slice computed tomography in the evaluation of single gunshot injuries
Isabella Aquila1, Francesco Sicilia1, Petrantomo Ricci1
1Institute of Legal Medicine, University Magna Graecia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy.
Abstract:
Post-mortem multi-slice computed tomography (MSCT) is a new approach in forensic pathology for gunshot injuries. This study determines the role of MSCT in the characterisation of single gunshot injuries. We report three cases. In the first case, an 80-year-old man was found dead in his bedroom with a gun. External examination showed devastating head injuries. In the second case, an 81-year-old man was found dead in his apartment, without a gun. External examination showed gunshot injuries. In the third case, a 56-year-old man was found dead on a road. MSCT and autopsy were performed in all these cases. MSCT not only allowed the determination of entrance and exit wounds but also showed some artefacts. In conclusion, radiology is fundamental for the reconstruction of gunshot injuries, and the manner of death can only be ascertained by autopsy.
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