Postmortem Ultrasound Imaging in Forensic Pathology

Abstract

Diagnostic imaging techniques, developing rapidly, are of great value in different medical fields. Some imaging techniques, such as conventional X-ray, computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), are applied also on a broad variety of occasions in the field of forensic medicine and pathology. At present, it is still difficult to carry out CT and MRI as part of the “routine work” in forensic pathological practice because special equipment, room, and technical staff are needed and these techniques are time-consuming and expensive. On the other hand, postmortem ultrasound imaging is easy to use and much cheaper than other imaging techniques. Using ultrasonography makes it possible to detect a variety of meaningful findings in corpses, as well as in living patients, in medicolegal practice. Application of ultrasound imaging to corpses is a new trial that needs further encouragement and research.