The use of modern high-resolution imaging has been well described in the setting of post-mortem investigations. Used for some time in forensics, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are now being evaluated as complementary or, at times, alternative means of performing cause-of-death determination. The authors briefly review the history of autopsy and the reasons for the gradual decrease in autopsy rates over the last two decades. An overview of advantages and limitations of modern imaging autopsy techniques is then presented, including a discussion of the potential roles of imaging autopsy in clinical performance improvement process as well as in medical education. Controversies surrounding this relatively new method of acquiring postmortem information are briefly reviewed. Potential future applications of modern imaging techniques in postmortem analysis, including the incorporation of modern ultrasound technology, are then discussed.

Citation: : Stawicki SP, Aggrawal A, Dean AJ, Bahner DA, Steinberg SM, Hoey BA. Postmortem use of advanced imaging techniques: Is autopsy going digital? OPUS 12 Scientist 2008;2(4):17-26.

Keywords: Autopsy, Imaging autopsy, Postmortem examination, Computed tomography, Magnetic resonance imaging, Ultrasound, Controversies.

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