1
|
Nakaki Y, Fukumoto W, Higashibori H, Kawashita I, Nakamura Y, Awai K. Performance of postmortem CT in the diagnosis of natural death from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Jpn J Radiol 2024:10.1007/s11604-024-01559-7. [PMID: 38625477 DOI: 10.1007/s11604-024-01559-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 03/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Postmortem CT (PMCT) is used widely to identify the cause of death. However, its diagnostic performance in cases of natural death from out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) may be unsatisfactory because the cause tends to be cardiogenic and cannot be detected on PMCT images. We retrospectively investigated the diagnostic performance of PMCT in the diagnosis of natural death from OHCA and compared it to that of unnatural death. MATERIALS AND METHODS Our series included 450 cases; 336 were natural- and 114 were unnatural death cases. Between 2018 and 2022 all underwent non-contrast PMCT to identify the cause of death. Two radiologists reviewed the PMCT images and categorized them as diagnostic (PMCT alone sufficient to determine the cause of death), suggestive (the cause of death was suggested but additional information was needed), and non-diagnostic (the cause of death could not be determined on PMCT images). The diagnostic performance of PMCT was defined by the percentage of diagnosable and suggestive cases and compared between natural- and unnatural death cases. Interobserver agreement for the cause of death on PMCT images was also assessed with the Cohen kappa coefficient of concordance. RESULTS The diagnostic performance of PMCT for the cause of natural- and unnatural deaths from OHCA was 30.3% and 66.6%, respectively (p < 0.01). The interobserver agreement for the cause of natural- and unnatural deaths on PMCT images was very good with kappa value 0.92 and 0.96, respectively. CONCLUSION As PMCT identified the cause of natural death by OHCA in only 30% of cases, its diagnostic performance must be improved.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Nakaki
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Wataru Fukumoto
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan.
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan.
| | - Haruka Higashibori
- Department of Diagnostic Imaging, JA Hiroshima General Hospital, 1-3-3 Jigozen, Hatsukaichi-Shi, Hiroshima, 738-0042, Japan
| | - Ikuo Kawashita
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Yuko Nakamura
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| | - Kazuo Awai
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
- Center for Cause of Death Investigation Research, Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Science, Hiroshima University, 1-2-3 Kasumi, Minamiku, Hiroshima, 734-8551, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Levin JH, Pecoraro A, Ochs V, Meagher A, Steenburg SD, Hammer PM. Characterization of fatal blunt injuries using postmortem computed tomography. J Trauma Acute Care Surg 2023; 95:186-190. [PMID: 37068024 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0000000000004012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rapid triage of blunt agonal trauma patients is necessary to maximize survival, but autopsy is uncommon, slow, and rarely informs resuscitation guidelines. Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) can serve as an adjunct to autopsy in guiding blunt agonal trauma resuscitation. METHODS Retrospective cohort review of trauma decedents who died at or within 1 hour of arrival following blunt trauma and underwent noncontrasted PMCT. Primary outcome was the prevalence of mortal injury defined as potential exsanguination (e.g., cavitary injury, long bone and pelvic fractures), traumatic brain injury, and cervical spine injury. Secondary outcomes were potentially mortal injuries (e.g., pneumothorax) and misplacement airway devices. Patients were grouped by whether arrest occurred prehospital/in-hospital. Univariate analysis was used to identify differences in injury patterns including multiple-trauma injury patterns. RESULTS Over a 9-year period, 80 decedents were included. Average age was 48.9 ± 21.7 years, 68% male, and an average ISS of 42.3 ± 16.3. The most common mechanism was motor vehicle accidents (67.5%) followed by pedestrian struck (15%). Of all decedents, 62 (77.5%) had traumatic arrest prehospital while 18 (22.5%) arrived with pulse. Between groups there were no significant differences in demographics including ISS. The most common mortal injuries were traumatic brain injury (40%), long bone fractures (25%), moderate/large hemoperitoneum (22.5%), and cervical spine injury (25%). Secondary outcomes included moderate/large pneumothorax (18.8%) and esophageal intubation rate of 5%. There were no significant differences in mortal or potentially mortal injuries, and no differences in multiple-trauma injury patterns. CONCLUSION Fatal blunt injury patterns do not vary between prehospital and in-hospital arrest decedents. High rates of pneumothorax and endotracheal tube misplacement should prompt mandatory chest decompression and confirmation of tube placement in all blunt arrest patients. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Prognostic and Epidemiological; Level IV.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeremy H Levin
- From the Division of Acute Care Surgery, Department of Surgery (J.H.L., A.M., P.M.H.), Department of Surgery (A.P.), Indiana University School of Medicine, Indiana University School of Medicine (V.O.), and Division of Emergency Radiology, Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences (S.D.S.), Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Indiana
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Shimbashi S, Hyodoh H. Postmortem kinetic CT of the cervical spine and an objective index for diagnosing anterior disc space widening: A retrospective utility analysis. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2023; 61:102207. [PMID: 36801591 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2023.102207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Postmortem CT has limitations in identifying cervical spine injuries. Injuries at the level of the intervertebral disc (anterior disc space widening), such as rupture of the anterior longitudinal ligament or intervertebral disc, may be difficult to distinguish from normal images depending on the imaging position. We performed postmortem kinetic CT of the cervical spine in the extended position in addition to CT in the neutral position. The difference in intervertebral angles between the neutral and extended positions was defined as the intervertebral range of motion (ROM), and the utility of postmortem kinetic CT of the cervical spine for the diagnosis of anterior disc space widening and its objective index were examined based on the intervertebral ROM. Of 120 cases, 14 had anterior disc space widening: 11 had one lesion and 3 had two lesions. The intervertebral ROM for the 17 lesions was 11.85° ± 5.25° and that for the normal vertebrae was 3.78° ± 2.81°, with a significant difference between the two. ROC analysis of the intervertebral ROM between vertebrae with anterior disc space widening and the normal vertebral spaces showed an AUC of 0.903 (95 % confidence interval 0.803-1) and a cutoff value of 8.61° (sensitivity 0.96, specificity 0.82). Postmortem kinetic CT of the cervical spine revealed that the intervertebral ROM of the anterior disc space widening was increased, which facilitated identification of the injury. An intervertebral ROM that exceeds 8.61° facilitates a diagnosis of anterior disc space widening.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shogo Shimbashi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka, Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1193, Japan.
| | - Hideki Hyodoh
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Fukui, 23-3 Matsuoka, Shimoaizuki, Eiheiji-cho, Yoshida-gun, Fukui 910-1193, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Prokopowicz V, Borowska-Solonynko A, Brzozowska M, Chamier-Gliszczyńska A. Knowledge and attitudes of Polish prosecutors and general Polish population in regard to post-mortem computed tomography in 2019. ARCHIVES OF FORENSIC MEDICINE AND CRIMINOLOGY 2023; 73:139-148. [PMID: 38186040 DOI: 10.4467/16891716amsik.23.008.18295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-mortem computer tomography (PMCT) is an imaging technique that is gaining popularity both worldwide and in Poland. It provides certain benefits in death investigation that a conventional autopsy is not able to, however, it has significant limitations. As PMCT and post-mortem computed angiography (PMCTA) continue to develop in this country, it is critical to become aware what people know and think about these imaging techniques, especially the prosecutors who officially order such examinations to be performed. In 2019, two concurrent surveys were administered to Polish prosecutors and general Polish population, respectively, regarding their current knowledge and opinions on PMCT. The results were collected both online and on paper, and then subjected to analysis. In total, 92 prosecutors and 227 non-prosecutors responded to the survey. The present authors observed that while prosecutors were more likely to have heard of this examination than the general public, their knowledge was often inadequate or incorrect. Conventional autopsy was still held as the gold standard in death investigation. However, a good popular sentiment towards PMCT was shown, and a desire to learn more about it - not just among prosecutors, but among the general public as well. The present authors' recommendation is that more courses and training should be organised for Polish prosecutors to compensate this knowledge gap.
Collapse
|
5
|
Speelman AC, Engel-Hills PC, Martin LJ, van Rijn RR, Offiah AC. Postmortem computed tomography plus forensic autopsy for determining the cause of death in child fatalities. Pediatr Radiol 2022; 52:2620-2629. [PMID: 35732843 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-022-05406-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2022] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Postmortem computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging have been gradually introduced to forensic pathology centres over the past two decades, with varying results in comparison to autopsy. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine the accuracy of postmortem CT in determining a cause of death in children who died of unnatural causes. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a prospective recruitment of 30 children (< 18 years) who underwent postmortem CT and a forensic autopsy. A cause of death was independently assigned by two experienced paediatric radiologists and compared to that of the forensic autopsy. RESULTS A correct cause of death was assigned by reviewers 1 and 2 in 70% (n = 21/30) and 67% (n = 20/30) of cases, respectively. For gunshot injuries and blunt force head injuries, there was 91% (n = 10/11) and 100% (n = 6/6) agreement between forensic autopsy and both reviewers, respectively. No cause of death could be assigned by reviewers 1 and 2 in 27% (n = 8) and 30% (n = 9) of cases, respectively. An incorrect cause of death was assigned by both reviewers in one case (3%). The Cohen Kappa level of agreement between the forensic autopsy and reviewers 1 and 2 was k = 0.624 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.45-0.80, P = 0) and k = 0.582 (95% CI 0.41-0.76, P = 0), respectively. There was near perfect agreement between reviewers 1 and 2 (k = 0.905) (95% CI 0.78-1.00, P = 0). CONCLUSION Postmortem CT has good diagnostic accuracy for identifying a cause of death related to trauma, but it has poor accuracy for children dying from causes not associated with apparent physical injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Aladdin C Speelman
- Radiography (Diagnostic), Department of Medical Imaging and Therapeutic Sciences, Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, 7530, Cape Town, South Africa.
| | - Penelope C Engel-Hills
- Faculty of Health and Wellness Sciences, Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Bellville, 7530, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Lorna J Martin
- Division of Forensic Medicine & Toxicology, Department of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Rick R van Rijn
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Netherlands Forensic Institute, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Amaka C Offiah
- University of Sheffield and Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, UK
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Henningsen MJ, Larsen ST, Jacobsen C, Villa C. Sensitivity and specificity of post-mortem computed tomography in skull fracture detection-a systematic review and meta-analysis. Int J Legal Med 2022; 136:1363-1377. [PMID: 35286468 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-022-02803-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) has been increasingly used as routine examination in forensic pathology. No recent review of the growing number of papers on the ability of PMCT to detect skull fracture exists, and original papers report sensitivities from 0.85 to 1.00. This systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD42021233264) aims to provide a meta-analysis of sensitivity and specificity of PMCT in skull fracture detection. We searched PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase for papers published between January 2000 and August 2021 reporting raw numbers, sensitivity and specificity or Abbreviated Injury Score for PMCT compared to autopsy. Papers without both PMCT and autopsy, no separate reporting of the neuro-cranium, exclusively on children, sharp trauma, gunshot or natural death as well as case reports and reviews were excluded. Two authors independently performed inclusion, bias assessment and data extraction. QUADAS-2 was used for bias assessment and a random effects models used for meta-analysis. From 4.284 hits, 18 studies were eligible and 13 included in the meta-analysis for a total of 1538 cases. All deceased were scanned on multi-slice scanners with comparable parameters. Images were evaluated by radiologists or pathologists. Intra- and inter-observer analyses were rarely reported. In summary, sensitivity of PMCT for detection of fractures in the skull base was 0.87 [0.80; 0.92] with specificity 0.96 [0.90; 0.98], and sensitivity for the vault was 0.89 [0.80; 0.94] with specificity 0.96 [0.91; 0.98]. The mixed samples are a limitation of the review.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mikkel Jon Henningsen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Section of Forensic Pathology, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's vej 11, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Sara Tangmose Larsen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Section of Forensic Pathology, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's vej 11, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christina Jacobsen
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Section of Forensic Pathology, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's vej 11, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Chiara Villa
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Section of Forensic Pathology, University of Copenhagen, Frederik V's vej 11, 2100, Copenhagen, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Woźniak KJ, Moskała A, Kluza P, Rzepecka-Woźniak E. Blunt Force, Gunshot, and Sharp Force Injuries. FORENSIC IMAGING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-83352-7_7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
8
|
Dedouit F, Grabherr S, Heinze S, Scheurer E, Yen K. Forensic Imaging: A New Subspeciality of Radiology. FORENSIC IMAGING 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-83352-7_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
|
9
|
Safety of mechanical and manual chest compressions in cardiac arrest patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Resuscitation 2021; 169:124-135. [PMID: 34699924 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2021.10.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
AIM Summarise the evidence regarding the safety of mechanical and manual chest compressions for cardiac arrest patients. METHODS Two investigators separately screened the articles of EMBASE, PubMed, and Cochrane Central databases. Cohort studies and randomized clinical trials (RCTs) that evaluated the safety of mechanical (LUCAS or AutoPulse) and manual chest compressions in cardiac arrest patients were included. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects model to calculate the pooled odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The primary outcome was the rate of overall compression-induced injuries. The secondary outcomes included the incidence of life-threatening injuries, skeletal fractures, visceral injuries, and other soft tissue injuries. RESULTS The meta-analysis included 11 trials involving 2,818 patients. A significantly higher rate of overall compression-induced injuries was found for mechanical compressions than manual compressions (OR, 1.29; 95% CI, 1.19-1.41), while there was no significant difference between the two groups in respect of the rate of life-threatening injuries. Furthermore, both modalities shared similar incidences of sternal fractures, vertebral fractures, lung, spleen, and kidney injuries. However, compared to mechanical compressions, manual compressions were shown to present a reduced risk of posterior rib fractures, and heart and liver lesions. CONCLUSIONS The findings suggested that manual compressions could decrease the risk of compression-induced injuries compared to mechanical compressions in cardiac arrest patients. Interestingly, mechanical compressions have not increased the risk of life-threatening injuries, whereas additional high-quality RCTs are needed to further verify the safety of mechanical chest devices. TRIAL REGISTRY INPLASY; Registration number: INPLASY2020110111; URL: https://inplasy.com/.
Collapse
|
10
|
Characteristics of Prehospital Death in Trauma Victims. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10204765. [PMID: 34682888 PMCID: PMC8540414 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10204765] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Using Injury Severity Score (ISS) data, this study aimed to give an overview of trauma mechanisms, causes of death, injury patterns, and potential survivability in prehospital trauma victims. Methods: Age, gender, trauma mechanism, cause of death, and ISS data were recorded regarding forensic autopsies and whole-body postmortem CT. Characteristics were analyzed for injuries considered potentially survivable at cutoffs of (I) ISS ≤ 75 vs. ISS = 75, (II) ISS ≤ 49 vs. ISS ≥ 50, and (III) ISS < lethal dose 50% (LD50) vs. ISS > LD50 according to Bull’s probit model. Results: In n = 130 prehospital trauma victims (45.3 ± 19.5 years), median ISS was 66. Severity of injuries to the head/neck and chest was greater compared to other regions (p < 0.001). 52% died from central nervous system (CNS) injury. Increasing injury severity in head/neck region was associated with CNS-injury related death (odds ratio (OR) 2.7, confidence interval (CI) 1.8–4.4). Potentially survivable trauma was identified in (I) 56%, (II) 22%, and (III) 9%. Victims with ISS ≤ 75, ISS ≤ 49, and ISS < LD50 had lower injury severity across most ISS body regions compared to their respective counterparts (p < 0.05). Conclusion: In prehospital trauma victims, injury severity is high. Lethal injuries predominate in the head/neck and chest regions and are associated with CNS-related death. The appreciable amount (9–56%) of victims dying at presumably survivable injury severity encourages perpetual efforts for improvement in the rescue of highly traumatized patients.
Collapse
|
11
|
The role of PMCT for the assessment of the cause of death in natural disaster (landslide and flood): a Sicilian experience. Int J Legal Med 2021; 136:237-244. [PMID: 34476607 PMCID: PMC8813687 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-021-02683-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
In this report, the authors provide a contribution of PMCT in assessing the cause of death due to natural disasters. Here, the PMCT findings of 43 subjects who died during both landslide and flood were described. The post-mortem imaging revealed, clearly, traumatic injuries and/or the presence of foreign material in airways allowing to assess the cause of death of each subject, together with external inspection and the collected circumstantial data. Particularly, the PMCT has been helpful for characterization and localization of the clogging substance in airways providing findings on bronchial branches involvement. Moreover, the investigation offered detailed data on skeletal injuries in all anatomic districts and put in evidence both the precise fracturing site and the characteristics of fracture stubs for each bone fracture. This report supports the recommendation of the virtual autopsy in a case with several victims, as in natural disasters, and its role as an alternative diagnostic investigation when the standard autopsy is not feasible.
Collapse
|
12
|
Yamaguchi R, Makino Y, Torimitsu S, Chiba F, Kihara Y, Iwase H. Fatal bilateral pneumothoraces after electroacupuncture treatment: A case report and literature review. J Forensic Sci 2021; 67:377-383. [PMID: 34435369 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2021] [Revised: 08/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Acupuncture is practiced as a complementary medicine worldwide. Although it is considered a safe practice, pneumothorax is one of its most common serious complications. However, there have been few reports of deaths due to pneumothorax after acupuncture treatment, especially focused on electroacupuncture. We report an autopsy case of a man in his 60s who went into cardiopulmonary arrest and died immediately after receiving electroacupuncture. Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) showed bilateral pneumothoraces, as well as the presence of numerous gold threads embedded subcutaneously. An autopsy revealed two ecchymoses in the right thoracic cavity and a pinhole injury on the lower lobe of the right lung, suggesting that the needles had penetrated the lung. There were marked emphysematous changes in the lung, suggesting that rupture of bullae might also have contributed to bilateral pneumothoraces and fatal outcome. The acupuncture needles may have been drawn deeper into the body than at the time of insertion due to electrical pulses and muscle contraction, indicating the need for careful determination of treatment indications and technical safety measures, such as fail-safe mechanisms. This is the first case report of fatal bilateral pneumothoraces after electroacupuncture reported in the English literature. This case sheds light on the safety of electroacupuncture and the need for special care when administering it to patients with pulmonary disease who may be at a higher risk of pneumothorax. This is also the first report of three-dimensional reconstructed PMCT images showing the whole-body distribution of embedded gold acupuncture threads, which is unusual.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rutsuko Yamaguchi
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba City, Japan
| | - Yohsuke Makino
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba City, Japan
| | - Suguru Torimitsu
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba City, Japan
| | - Fumiko Chiba
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba City, Japan
| | - Yuko Kihara
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hirotaro Iwase
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.,Department of Legal Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba City, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Kranioti EF, Nathena D, Spanakis K, Karantanas A, Bouhaidar R, McLaughlin S, Thali MJ, Ampanozi G. Unenhanced PMCT in the diagnosis of fatal traumatic brain injury in a charred body. J Forensic Leg Med 2020; 77:102093. [PMID: 33316735 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2020.102093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2020] [Revised: 11/18/2020] [Accepted: 12/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Traffic incidents are one of the most frequent causes of death in young adults worldwide. Depending on the location of the incident, the velocity of the vehicle(s), the weather condition, traffic incidents are often complicated making the investigation of the circumstances difficult. Here we report a case of an incinerated body involved in a vehicle incident. Differential diagnosis included natural cause of death during driving, fatal traumatic injuries, death due to fire and positional asphyxia. The body was submitted to PMCT prior to autopsy as part of a research protocol (N. 1388/2016) at the Department of Medical Imaging of the University Hospital of Heraklion in Crete, Greece. Unenhanced PMCT revealed craniofacial fractures, a thin film of subdural haemorrhage and an epidural fluid collection. The findings were interpreted as consistent with an impact to the face, causing craniofacial fractures mainly on the right side, and an acute subdural hematoma. Autopsy findings corroborated the diagnosis. The epidural hematoma was deemed to be post-mortem heat-induced. This case is an excellent example of the diagnostic value of PMCT in the medicolegal investigation of death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena F Kranioti
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Department of Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece; Edinburgh Forensic Radiology and Anthropology Imaging Centre, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Despoina Nathena
- Forensic Medicine Unit, Department of Forensic Sciences, Medical School, University of Crete, Heraklion, Greece.
| | | | - Apostolos Karantanas
- Department of Medical Imaging, Heraklion University Hospital, Heraklion, Greece.
| | - Ralph Bouhaidar
- Division of Forensic Pathology, Medical School, University of Edinburgh, UK; Edinburgh Forensic Radiology and Anthropology Imaging Centre, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Siobhan McLaughlin
- Edinburgh Forensic Radiology and Anthropology Imaging Centre, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, UK.
| | - Michael J Thali
- Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190/52, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Garyfalia Ampanozi
- Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190/52, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
A review on the evolution and characteristics of post-mortem imaging techniques. FORENSIC IMAGING 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fri.2020.200420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
15
|
Vester MEM, Nolte KB, Hatch GM, Gerrard CY, Stoel RD, van Rijn RR. Postmortem Computed Tomography in Firearm Homicides: A Retrospective Case Series. J Forensic Sci 2020; 65:1568-1573. [PMID: 32402110 PMCID: PMC7496672 DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.14453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2020] [Revised: 04/16/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) is integrated into the evaluation of decedents in several American medical examiner offices and medicolegal death investigative centers in many other countries. We retrospectively investigated the value of PMCT in a series of firearm homicide cases from a statewide centralized medical examiner’s office that occurred during 2016. Autopsies were performed or supervised by board‐certified forensic pathologists who reviewed the PMCT scans prior to autopsy. PMCT scans were re‐evaluated by a forensic radiologist blinded to the autopsy findings and scored by body region (head–neck, thoracoabdominal, and extremities). Injury discrepancies were scored using a modified Goldman classification and analyzed with McNemar’s test. We included 60 males and 20 females (median age 31 years, range 3–73). Based on PMCT, 56 (79.1%) cases had injuries relevant to the cause of death in a single body region (24 head–neck region, 32 thoracoabdominal region). Out of these 56 cases, 9 had a missed major diagnosis by PMCT outside that region, including 6 extremity injuries visible during standard external examination. Yet all had evident lethal firearm injury. We showed that PMCT identifies major firearm injuries in homicide victims and excludes injuries related to the cause of death in other regions when a single body region is injured. Although PMCT has a known limited sensitivity for soft tissue and vascular pathology, it can be combined with external examination to potentially reduce or focus dissections in some of these cases depending on the circumstances and medicolegal needs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marloes E M Vester
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Netherlands Forensic Institute, Laan van Ypenburg 6, 2497 GB, The Hague, The Netherlands.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Kurt B Nolte
- Office of the Medical Investigator, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, 1101 Camino de Salud, Albuquerque, NM, 87102
| | - Gary M Hatch
- Office of the Medical Investigator, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, 1101 Camino de Salud, Albuquerque, NM, 87102
| | - Chandra Y Gerrard
- Office of the Medical Investigator, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, 1101 Camino de Salud, Albuquerque, NM, 87102
| | - Reinoud D Stoel
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Netherlands Forensic Institute, Laan van Ypenburg 6, 2497 GB, The Hague, The Netherlands
| | - Rick R van Rijn
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Netherlands Forensic Institute, Laan van Ypenburg 6, 2497 GB, The Hague, The Netherlands.,Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Treitl KM, Aigner LI, Gazov E, Fischer F, Schinner R, Schmid-Tannwald C, Kirchhoff S, Scherr MK. Injuries of the isolated larynx-hyoid complex in post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) and post-mortem fine preparation (PMFP) - a comparison of 54 forensic cases. Eur Radiol 2020; 30:4564-4572. [PMID: 32232789 PMCID: PMC8275497 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-020-06770-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Revised: 12/19/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Objectives To assess the diagnostic accuracy (ACC) of post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) for fractures of the isolated larynx-hyoid complex (LHC) in comparison to post-mortem fine preparation (PMFP). Methods This monocentric prospective study enclosed 54 LHCs that were extracted during autopsy, fixed in formalin, and underwent a PMCT scan (64-row multidetector CT, helical pitch). Two radiologists independently analyzed the LHC scans for image quality (IQ) and fractures (4-point Likert scales). A specialized forensic preparator dissected the specimens under the stereomicroscope. The PMFP results were standardized documented, and used as the standard of reference for the comparison to PMCT. Results The PMCT-IQ of 95% of the LHC images was rated as good or excellent. IQ was decreased by decay, incisions during autopsy, and separation of the hyoid from the cartilaginous components in 7, 3, and 12 specimens, respectively. PMFP detected 119 fractures in 34 LHCs (63.0%). PMCT identified 91 fractures in 32 specimens (59.3%). PMFP and PMCT significantly agreed concerning the location (Cohen’s κ = 0.762; p < 0.001) and the degree of dislocation (κ = 0.689; p < 0.001) of the fractures. Comparing PMCT to PMFP resulted in a sensitivity of 88.2%, a specificity of 90.0%, and an ACC of 88.9% for the LHC. The ACCs for the hyoid, thyroid, and cricoid were 94.4%, 87.0%, and 81.5%, respectively. PMCT procedure was significantly faster than PMFP (28.9 ± 4.1 min vs. 208.2 ± 32.5 min; p < 0,001). Conclusions PMCT can detect distinct injuries of the isolated LHC and may promptly confirm violence against the neck as cause of death. PMFP outmatches PMCT in the detection of decent injuries like tears of the cricoid cartilage. Key Points • Post-mortem computed tomography is able to assess fractures of the larynx-hyoid complex. • Prospective monocentric in vitro study showed that post-mortem computed tomography of the larynx-hyoid complex is faster than post-mortem fine preparation. • Post-mortem computed tomography can confirm violence against the neck as cause of death.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Karla Maria Treitl
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany.
| | - Laura Isabel Aigner
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany.,Department of Radiology, Klinikum Kempten, Kempten, Germany
| | - Evgenij Gazov
- Department of Radiology, BG Unfallklinik Murnau, Murnau am Staffelsee, Germany
| | - Florian Fischer
- Department of Radiology, BG Unfallklinik Murnau, Murnau am Staffelsee, Germany
| | - Regina Schinner
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Christine Schmid-Tannwald
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Sonja Kirchhoff
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Karl Scherr
- Department of Radiology, University Hospital, LMU Munich, Pettenkoferstr. 8a, 80336, Munich, Germany.,Institute of Forensic Medicine, Ludwig Maximilians University, Munich, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Chandy PE, Murray N, Khasanova E, Nasir MU, Nicolaou S, Macri F. Postmortem CT in Trauma: An Overview. Can Assoc Radiol J 2020; 71:403-414. [PMID: 32174147 DOI: 10.1177/0846537120909503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
As forensic radiology sees an exponential gain in popularity, postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) is increasingly being used in the appropriate setting, either as preautopsy guidance or as part of complementary virtual autopsy protocol. Many articles have expounded the value it adds to forensic pathology in the general setting and the appropriate technical parameters to be used for optimum benefit. We aim to put forth a concise review on the role of PMCT specifically in trauma and the pitfalls to be aware of. Reviews have shown that presumed cause of death in trauma have been proven by autopsy to be wrong in about 30% cases. Radiology applied to postmortem investigation in unnatural deaths and more specifically in trauma shares many semiotic features with emergency radiology. Therefore, in the near future, emergency radiologists might be required to integrate this type of imaging in their regular practice. Although the predominant drawbacks are time-dependent, PMCT also has some difficulty in differentiating antemortem and postmortem events. However, in many such scenarios, PMCT and autopsy play a complementary role in arriving at conclusions, and we believe understanding the benefits and role in trauma is imperative considering the expanding usage of PMCT.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Poornima Elizabeth Chandy
- Emergency and Trauma Imaging Division, Department of Radiology, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Nicolas Murray
- Emergency and Trauma Imaging Division, Department of Radiology, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Elina Khasanova
- Cardiothoracic Imaging Division, Department of Radiology, Vancouver General Hospital, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Muhammad Umer Nasir
- Emergency and Trauma Imaging Division, Department of Radiology, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Savvas Nicolaou
- Emergency and Trauma Imaging Division, Department of Radiology, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Francesco Macri
- Emergency and Trauma Imaging Division, Department of Radiology, Vancouver General Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wijetunga C, O'Donnell C, So TY, Varma D, Cameron P, Burke M, Bassed R, Smith K, Beck B. Injury Detection in Traumatic Death: Postmortem Computed Tomography vs. Open Autopsy. FORENSIC IMAGING 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jofri.2019.100349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
|
19
|
Comparison between postmortem computed tomography and autopsy in the detection of traumatic head injuries. J Neuroradiol 2020; 47:5-12. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neurad.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2019] [Revised: 03/08/2019] [Accepted: 03/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
|
20
|
Added value of post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) to clinical findings for cause of death determination in adult "natural deaths". Int J Legal Med 2019; 134:1457-1463. [PMID: 31853676 PMCID: PMC7295833 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-019-02219-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2019] [Accepted: 11/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to investigate whether post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) provides additional information regarding the cause of death and underlying diseases in a general practitioners’ (GP), out-of-hospital population. Methods and materials Bodies donated to our anatomy department between January 2014 and January 2018, who consecutively underwent a total body PMCT and had given permission for retrieval of their medical records during life, were included. PMCT scans were assessed by a radiologist and compared with the cause of death as stated in the medical records. Discrepancies were analyzed with an adjusted Goldman classification. Results Ninety-three out of the 274 scanned donors during the inclusion period had given consent for the retrieval of their medical records, of which 79 GP’s responded to the request thereof (31 men, 48 women, average age 72.8 years, range 36–99). PMCT identified 49 (62%) cases of cancer, 10 (12.7%) cardiovascular diseases, 8 (10.1%) severe organ failures, 5 (6.3%) cases with signs of pneumonia, 2 (2.5%) other causes, and 7 (8.9%) cases without an (underlying) definitive cause of death. Eleven major discrepancies on the Goldman classification scale, with possible relevance to survival between PMCT and GP records, were identified. Conclusion PMCT can have added value for the detection of additional findings regarding the cause of death in an out-of-hospital, GP’s population, especially to identify or exclude major (previously non-diagnosed) underlying diseases.
Collapse
|
21
|
Obertová Z, Leipner A, Messina C, Vanzulli A, Fliss B, Cattaneo C, Sconfienza LM. Postmortem imaging of perimortem skeletal trauma. Forensic Sci Int 2019; 302:109921. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2019.109921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 08/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
|
22
|
Ampanozi G, Halbheer D, Ebert LC, Thali MJ, Held U. Postmortem imaging findings and cause of death determination compared with autopsy: a systematic review of diagnostic test accuracy and meta-analysis. Int J Legal Med 2019; 134:321-337. [PMID: 31455980 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-019-02140-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 08/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to evaluate the sensitivity of postmortem computed tomography (PMCT), postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (PMMR) and PMCT angiography (PMCTA) compared with autopsy in cases of adult death investigations. METHODS For this systematic review and meta-analysis, Embase, PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Medline were searched for eligible studies in October 2016; a follow-up literature search was conducted in March 2018. Studies referring to PMCT, PMCTA and/or PMMR of more than 3 cases with subsequent autopsy were included. Data were extracted from published texts in duplicate. The extracted outcomes were categorized as follows: soft tissue and organ findings, skeletal injuries, haemorrhages, abnormal gas accumulations and causes of death. The summary measure was sensitivity, if 3 or more studies were available. To combine studies, a random effects model was used. Variability and heterogeneity within the meta-analysis was assessed. RESULTS Of 1053 studies, 66 were eligible, encompassing a total of 4213 individuals. For soft tissue and organ findings, there was a high pooled sensitivity with PMCTA (0.91, 95% CI 0.81-0.96), without evidence for between-study variability (Cochrane's Q test p = 0.331, I2 = 24.5%). The pooled sensitivity of PMCT+PMMR was very high in skeletal injuries (0.97, CI 0.87-0.99), without evidence for variability (p = 0.857, I2 = 0.0%). In detecting haemorrhages, the pooled sensitivity for PMCT+PMMR was the highest (0.88, 95% CI 0.35-0.99), with strong evidence of heterogeneity (p < 0.05, I2 > 50%). Pooled sensitivity for the correct cause of death was the highest for PMCTA with 0.79 (95% CI 0.52-0.93), again with evidence of heterogeneity (p = 0.062, I2 > 50%). CONCLUSION Distinct postmortem imaging modalities can achieve high sensitivities for detecting various findings and causes of death. This knowledge should lead to a reasoned use of each modality. Both forensic evidence and in-hospital medical quality would be enhanced.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Garyfalia Ampanozi
- Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190/52, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Delaja Halbheer
- Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190/52, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lars C Ebert
- Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190/52, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Michael J Thali
- Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190/52, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Held
- Horten Centre, University of Zurich, Pestalozzistrasse 24, 8091, Zurich, Switzerland.,Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, Department of Biostatistics, University of Zurich, Hirschengraben 84, 8001, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Maeda H, Tsujimura T, Yoshida KI. Questionnaire study on the utility of autopsy case conferences related to emergency medicine practices. Medicine (Baltimore) 2019; 98:e15315. [PMID: 31027099 PMCID: PMC6831219 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000015315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
We examined whether and how conferences on cases of medico-legal autopsy after emergency medicine (EM) practices improved the diagnostic accuracy and expertise of emergency medicine practitioners (EMPs) and forensic pathologists (FPs); we also examined the necessity of imaging in autopsy diagnoses. We additionally discuss whether imaging could replace autopsy.An unsigned, self-administered questionnaire was distributed to the attendees of monthly case conferences during which EMPs and FPs discussed EM-associated autopsy cases. The questionnaire addressed the following 6 questions: was the conference useful for forensic medicine or EM practices, was autopsy necessary for each case, were the autopsy and clinical diagnoses consistent, was imaging necessary for autopsy diagnosis, and should autopsy results be disclosed to the public. Participants were autopsy operators, third-party EMPs, and FPs, primarily from universities in and near Tokyo.Fifty-two cases were discussed; more than 80% of the attendees acknowledged the usefulness of autopsy and the conferences, and 33.6% corrected their diagnoses by considering autopsy information. Major clinical misdiagnoses were corrected by autopsy in 35.3% of cases, including procedure-related hemorrhage, intoxication, asphyxia, fat embolism, diabetes, organ injuries, and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Approximately 75% of the attendees recognized the usefulness of imaging for autopsy. However, in a series of four SAH cases, the clinical diagnoses were corrected after the conferences more often by EMPs than by FPs. In a violence-related case, false legal judgment was prevented because the conference discussion corrected the clinical diagnosis from traumatic to natural.In conclusion, the conference improved the accuracy and expertise of diagnoses provided by EMPs and FPs; conference participation led to the correction of major clinical misdiagnoses as well as that of the first diagnoses issued by attendees in more than one-third cases. The usefulness of imaging for autopsy was acknowledged by two thirds of the attendees. Our results also suggested that imaging cannot replace autopsy in deaths related to procedure or violence and in several categories of deaths such as intoxication and asphyxia.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hideyuki Maeda
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tokyo Medical University, Shijuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
| | - Takako Tsujimura
- Department of Japanese Linguistics, School of Medicine, Tokyo Women's Medical University, Kawatacho, Shinjyuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ken-ichi Yoshida
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Tokyo Medical University, Shijuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Ter Avest E, McWhirter E, Dunn S, Griggs JE, Lyon RM. Prehospital Death After Traumatic Cardiac Arrest: Time for Better Feedback? Air Med J 2019; 38:78-81. [PMID: 30898288 DOI: 10.1016/j.amj.2018.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 11/16/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to establish if in patients who die at scene as a result of traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA), their cause of death could be determined through coroners reports, and to ascertain the quality of the feedback provided. METHODS This is a retrospective study of all patients presenting in TCA who were attended by the Air Ambulance Kent, Surrey and Sussex between January 1, 2015, and June 30, 2016. RESULTS In total, 159 patients were attended to during the study period. Postmortem reports could not be obtained for 37 patients, mainly because of unestablished identities at the scene. Forty of the 122 reports obtained were full postmortem reports, 3 were inquest reports, and for 79 patients only their (presumed) cause of death was provided. A specific cause of death was provided for 68 patients, whereas in the remaining 54 patients the cause of death was given as "multiple injuries." In 32% of the patients with a full postmortem report, injuries were identified during the postmortem examination that had not been noted on scene. CONCLUSION Feedback from coroners to prehospital teams after patients die as a result of TCA is important but currently suboptimal.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ewoud Ter Avest
- Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK; Medical Center Leeuwarden, Leeuwarden, Netherlands.
| | - Emily McWhirter
- Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK; Royal Hospital for Neuro-disability, London, UK
| | - Sophy Dunn
- Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK
| | - Joanne E Griggs
- Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK
| | - Richard M Lyon
- Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Trust, Redhill, Surrey, UK; University of Surrey, Surrey, UK
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Chatzaraki V, Heimer J, Thali M, Dally A, Schweitzer W. Role of PMCT as a triage tool between external inspection and full autopsy – Case series and review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jofri.2018.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
|
26
|
Filograna L, Pugliese L, Muto M, Tatulli D, Guglielmi G, Thali MJ, Floris R. A Practical Guide to Virtual Autopsy: Why, When and How. Semin Ultrasound CT MR 2018; 40:56-66. [PMID: 30686369 DOI: 10.1053/j.sult.2018.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
Postmortem imaging is considered a routine investigative modality in many forensic institutions worldwide. Because of its ability to provide a quick and complete documentation of skeletal system and major parenchymal alterations, postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) is the imaging technique most frequently applied in postmortem forensic investigations. Also postmortem magnetic resonance has been implemented in postmortem setting, but its use is mostly limited to focused analysis (eg, study of the heart and brain). PMCT presents some limits in investigating "natural" deaths, particularly related to its poor ability in differentiating soft tissue interfaces and in depicting vascular lesions. For this reason, PMCT angiography has been introduced. A major limitation of these postmortem imaging techniques is the absence of body samples for histopathologic, toxicologic, or microbiological analysis. This limit has been overcome by the introduction of postmortem percutaneous biopsies. The aim of this review is to provide a practical guide for virtual autopsy, with the intent of facilitating standardization and augmenting its quality. In particular, the indications of virtual autopsy as well protocols in PMCT examinations and its ancillary techniques will be discussed. Finally, the workflow of a typical virtual autopsy and its main steps will be described.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Filograna
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Molecular Imaging and Radiotherapy, PTV Foundation, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Rome, Italy.
| | - Luca Pugliese
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Molecular Imaging and Radiotherapy, PTV Foundation, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Muto
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Molecular Imaging and Radiotherapy, PTV Foundation, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Doriana Tatulli
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Molecular Imaging and Radiotherapy, PTV Foundation, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Michael John Thali
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Floris
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Molecular Imaging and Radiotherapy, PTV Foundation, "Tor Vergata" University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
27
|
|
28
|
Steenburg SD, Spitzer T, Rhodes A. Post-mortem computed tomography improves completeness of the trauma registry: a single institution experience. Emerg Radiol 2018; 26:5-13. [PMID: 30159814 DOI: 10.1007/s10140-018-1637-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe our institutional experience with post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) and its impact on decedent injury severity score (ISS) and to assess the adequacy of emergently placed support medical devices. METHODS Over a 5-year period, patients who died at or soon after arrival and have physical exam findings inconsistent with death were candidates for inclusion. Whole body CT was performed without contrast with support medical devices left in place. ISS was calculated with and without the PMCT findings. PMCT results were compared to autopsy findings, if performed. The location of support medical devices was documented. RESULTS A total of 38 decedents underwent PMCT, including 53.1% males and a mean age of 42.0 years. Pre-PMCT ISS based on physical exam findings alone was 5.2 (range 0-25), including 16 with ISS = 0. Post-PMCT ISS using the additional imaging data was 50.3 (range 21-75), including 15 with ISS = 50 or greater. Nearly half (47.4%) had at least one support medical device that was either malpositioned or suboptimally positioned, including 26.3% with malpositioned airway devices, 10.3% with malpositioned intra-osseous catheters, and 100% with malpositioned decompressive needle thoracotomies. CONCLUSIONS PMCT adds value in identifying injuries that otherwise may have gone undetected in lieu of a formal autopsy, thus creating a more complete trauma registry. The identification of malpositioned support lines and tubes allows for educational feedback to the first responders and trainees. Institutions with a low formal autopsy rate for trauma victims may benefit from developing a PMCT program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Scott D Steenburg
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Division of Emergency Radiology, Indiana University School of Medicine and Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital, 1701 N. Senate Blvd, Room AG-176, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA.
| | - Tracy Spitzer
- Department of Trauma and Critical Care Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine and Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital, Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Amy Rhodes
- Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Division of Emergency Radiology, Indiana University School of Medicine and Indiana University Health Methodist Hospital, 1701 N. Senate Blvd, Room AG-176, Indianapolis, IN, 46202, USA
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Cirielli V, Cima L, Bortolotti F, Narayanasamy M, Scarpelli MP, Danzi O, Brunelli M, Eccher A, Vanzo F, Ambrosetti MC, El-Dalati G, Vanezis P, De Leo D, Tagliaro F. Virtual Autopsy as a Screening Test Before Traditional Autopsy: The Verona Experience on 25 Cases. J Pathol Inform 2018; 9:28. [PMID: 30167343 PMCID: PMC6106125 DOI: 10.4103/jpi.jpi_23_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2018] [Accepted: 06/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Interest has grown into the use of multidetector computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging as an adjunct or alternative to the invasive autopsy. We sought to investigate these possibilities in postmortem CT scan using an innovative virtual autopsy approach. Methods: Twenty-five postmortem cases were scanned with the Philips Brilliance CT-64 and then underwent traditional autopsy. The images were interpreted by two blinded forensic pathologists assisted by a radiologist with the INFOPSY® Digital Autopsy Software System which provides three-dimensional images in Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine format. Diagnostic validity of virtual autopsy (accuracy rate, sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values) and concordance between the two forensic pathologists (kappa intraobserver coefficients) were determined. Results: The causes of death at traditional autopsies were hemorrhage due to traumatic injuries (n = 8), respiratory failure (5), asphyxia due to drowning (4), asphyxia due to hanging or strangulation (2), heart failure (2), nontraumatic hemorrhage (1), and severe burns (1). In two cases, the cause of death could not be ascertained. In 15/23 (65%) cases, the cause of death diagnosed after virtual autopsy matched the diagnosis reported after traditional autopsy. In 8/23 cases (35%), traditional autopsy was necessary to establish the cause of death. Digital data provided relevant information for inferring both cause and manner of death in nine traumatic cases. The validity of virtual autopsy as a diagnostic tool was higher for traumatic deaths than other causes of death (accuracy 84%, sensitivity 82%, and specificity 86%). The concordance between the two forensic pathologists was almost perfect (>0.80). Conclusions: Our experience supports the use of virtual autopsy in postmortem investigations as an alternative diagnostic practice and does suggest a potential role as a screening test among traumatic deaths.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vito Cirielli
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Forensic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Luca Cima
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Anatomic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Federica Bortolotti
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Forensic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Murali Narayanasamy
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia
| | - Maria Pia Scarpelli
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Forensic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Olivia Danzi
- Department of Neurological, Biomedical and Movement Sciences, University of Verona, Italy
| | - Matteo Brunelli
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Anatomic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Albino Eccher
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Anatomic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Francesca Vanzo
- Center Research and Innovation for Digital Health, Veneto, Italy
| | - Maria Chiara Ambrosetti
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Radiology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Ghassan El-Dalati
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Radiology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Peter Vanezis
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Cameron Forensic Medical Sciences, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, London, United Kingdom
| | - Domenico De Leo
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Forensic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy
| | - Franco Tagliaro
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Forensic Pathology Unit, University and Hospital Trust of Verona, Italy.,Institute of Pharmacy and Translational Medicine, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Russian Federation, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Fatal Road Traffic Vehicle Collisions With Pedestrian Victims: Forensic Postmortem Computed Tomography and Autopsy Correlation. Am J Forensic Med Pathol 2018; 39:130-140. [PMID: 29438138 DOI: 10.1097/paf.0000000000000382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Fatal car-to-pedestrian collisions regularly appear in the forensic pathologist's routine, particularly in places of extended urbanization. Postmortem computed tomography has gained an exceptional role to supplement autopsy worldwide, giving information that is supplementary or complimentary to conventional autopsy. In this retrospective study, a total number of 320 findings in a series of 21 pedestrians fatally hit by cars and trucks of both postmortem computed tomography and autopsy were correlated. According to our results, it is best to combine both methods to give well-founded answers to questions pertaining to both collision reconstruction and cause of death.
Collapse
|
31
|
Graziani G, Tal S, Adelman A, Kugel C, Bdolah-Abram T, Krispin A. Usefulness of unenhanced post mortem computed tomography - Findings in postmortem non-contrast computed tomography of the head, neck and spine compared to traditional medicolegal autopsy. J Forensic Leg Med 2018; 55:105-111. [PMID: 29494949 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2018.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 01/25/2018] [Accepted: 02/19/2018] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION/BACKGROUND Post-mortem CT (PMCT) is becoming an essential tool available to forensic pathologists worldwide, but its validity with respect to evidence for legal purposes still requires more comprehensive large-scale studies, comparing PMCT to autopsy. This article compares PMCT and autopsy findings of the head, neck, and spine during a period of five years. MATERIALS AND METHODS The study included 203 cases for which both autopsy and PMCT were performed. All relevant findings were extracted from the reports and divided into 30 categories based on anatomical location and tissue characteristics. Data were evaluated quantitatively in a binary fashion. RESULTS/FINDINGS A high level of agreement was noted for skull fractures, intraventricular- and subarachnoid hemorrhages, bullet trajectories, and intracranial shrapnel. A fair correlation was demonstrated for brain atrophy or herniation, and findings in the facial soft tissues. PMCT had higher sensitivity to brain edema, presence of gas in tissues or cavities, and findings in the spinal column and spinal canal, whereas autopsy better demonstrated pathologies in the brain tissue, hemorrhages in the neck and fractures of the larynx and hyoid bone. A relatively low correlation was noted for subdural and epidural hematomata. CONCLUSIONS/INTERPRETATION For several locations, structures, and specific findings in the head, neck and spine, autopsy remains indispensable. However, PMCT better demonstrated some findings in locations that are difficult to access by autopsy, or structures that might be damaged due to autopsy procedure. For the examinations of these, PMCT may in specific cases serve as an alternative to autopsy. Generally, however, due to the vast and fundamental differences that distinguish each case from the next, and the different purposes that autopsy may serve, we propose that the decision as to which method (or a combination of both) should be used, be made according to the circumstances and expected findings of each case.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gil Graziani
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Sigal Tal
- Radiology Department, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin 70300, Israel; The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | - Adi Adelman
- Hebrew University-Hadassah Medical School, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Chen Kugel
- The National Institute of Forensic Medicine, 67 Ben Zvi Rd., Tel-Aviv, Israel; The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel
| | | | - Alon Krispin
- The National Institute of Forensic Medicine, 67 Ben Zvi Rd., Tel-Aviv, Israel; The Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Israel.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Sutherland T, O'Donnell C. The artefacts of death: CT post-mortem findings. J Med Imaging Radiat Oncol 2017; 62:203-210. [DOI: 10.1111/1754-9485.12691] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 09/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Sutherland
- Medical Imaging Department; St Vincent's Hospital; Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Faculty of Medicine; Dentistry and Health Science; University of Melbourne; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Chris O'Donnell
- Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine; Southbank Victoria Australia
- Department of Forensic Medicine; Monash University; Melbourne Victoria Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Bolster F, Ali Z, Daly B. The “pseudo-CT myelogram sign”: an aid to the diagnosis of underlying brain stem and spinal cord trauma in the presence of major craniocervical region injury on post-mortem CT. Clin Radiol 2017; 72:1085.e11-1085.e15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.crad.2017.07.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2017] [Revised: 07/01/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
34
|
Makino Y, Yokota H, Nakatani E, Yajima D, Inokuchi G, Motomura A, Chiba F, Torimitsu S, Uno T, Iwase H. Differences between postmortem CT and autopsy in death investigation of cervical spine injuries. Forensic Sci Int 2017; 281:44-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2017.10.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 10/06/2017] [Accepted: 10/20/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
35
|
Wagensveld IM, Blokker BM, Wielopolski PA, Renken NS, Krestin GP, Hunink MG, Oosterhuis JW, Weustink AC. Total-body CT and MR features of postmortem change in in-hospital deaths. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0185115. [PMID: 28953923 PMCID: PMC5617178 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0185115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the frequency of total-body CT and MR features of postmortem change in in-hospital deaths. MATERIALS AND METHODS In this prospective blinded cross-sectional study, in-hospital deceased adult patients underwent total-body postmortem CT and MR followed by image-guided biopsies. The presence of PMCT and PMMR features related to postmortem change was scored retrospectively and correlated with postmortem time interval, post-resuscitation status and intensive care unit (ICU) admittance. RESULTS Intravascular air, pleural effusion, periportal edema, and distended intestines occurred more frequently in patients who were resuscitated compared to those who were not. Postmortem clotting was seen less often in resuscitated patients (p = 0.002). Distended intestines and loss of grey-white matter differentiation in the brain showed a significant correlation with postmortem time interval (p = 0.001, p<0.001). Hyperdense cerebral vessels, intravenous clotting, subcutaneous edema, fluid in the abdomen and internal livores of the liver were seen more in ICU patients. Longer postmortem time interval led to a significant increase in decomposition related changes (p = 0.026). CONCLUSIONS There is a wide variety of imaging features of postmortem change in in-hospital deaths. These imaging features vary among clinical conditions, increase with longer postmortem time interval and must be distinguished from pathologic changes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivo M. Wagensveld
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
| | - Britt M. Blokker
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Piotr A. Wielopolski
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Nomdo S. Renken
- Department of Radiology, Reinier de Graaf Gasthuis, Delft, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Gabriel P. Krestin
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Myriam G. Hunink
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- Centre for Health Decision Science, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Harvard University, Boston, Massachusetts, United States of America
| | - J. Wolter Oosterhuis
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| | - Annick C. Weustink
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
- Department of Pathology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Zuid-Holland, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
van Kan R, Haest I, Lahaye M, Hofman P. The diagnostic value of forensic imaging in fatal gunshot incidents: A review of literature. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2017. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jofri.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
37
|
Shao Y, Wan L, Zhang J, Li Z, Liu N, Huang P, Zou D, Chen Y. Post-mortem computed tomography angiography using left ventricle cardiac puncture: A whole-body, angiographic approach. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0183408. [PMID: 28827844 PMCID: PMC5565169 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0183408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2017] [Accepted: 08/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) and PMCT angiography (PMCTA) are rapidly becoming effective and practical methods in forensic medicine. In this article, the authors introduce a whole-body PMCTA approach involving left ventricle cardiac puncture. This procedure was performed in 9 males and 3 females. PMCT was performed first. Then a biopsy core needle was used for a percutaneous puncture into the left ventricle through the intercostal area under CT guidance. 1000 mL of contrast media (diatrizoate meglumine and normal saline [0.9%] at 1:2 ratio) was injected at a rate of 50 mL/8 s, followed by CT scan. Visualization of systemic arteries was achieved in 11 cases, while only partial visualization was achieved in 1 case, which may have been related to incomplete thawing of the cadaver. PMCTA results revealed no vascular diseases and abnormalities in 10 victims. Among the 10 victims, 4 post-scan autopsies were performed and found no vascular abnormalities, consistent with the PMCTA results. Autopsy of the other 6 victims were refused by the relatives. PMCTA revealed signs of internal carotid artery aneurysm inside the sphenoid sinus in one victim, which was confirmed by autopsy. PMCTA results of another victim showed signs of stenosis and blockage of the distal part of the right vertebral artery and basilar artery. Thromboembolism of those arteries was found during autopsy. Compared with other existing PMCTA methods for examination of vascular injuries and diseases, this technique involves simple procedures, is less time consuming, has lower associated costs, does not require specialized equipment, provides adequate imaging quality, and is suitable for centres not equipped with cardiopulmonary bypass machines or other specialized equipment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yu Shao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Wan
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianhua Zhang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhengdong Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Ningguo Liu
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Ping Huang
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
| | - Donghua Zou
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (DZ); (YC)
| | - Yijiu Chen
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Forensic Medicine, Shanghai Forensic Service Platform, Institute of Forensic Science, Ministry of Justice, P.R. China, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail: (DZ); (YC)
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
|
39
|
Schober D, Schwendener N, Zech WD, Jackowski C. Post-mortem CT: Hounsfield unit profiles obtained in the lungs with respect to the cause of death assessment. Int J Legal Med 2016; 131:199-210. [PMID: 27766411 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1454-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Accepted: 09/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Segmentation of the lungs using post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) data was so far not feasible due to post-mortem changes such as internal livores. Recently, an Osirix plug-in has been developed allowing automatically segmenting lungs also in PMCT data. The aim of this study was to investigate if the Hounsfield unit (HU) profiles obtained in PMCT data of the segmented lung tissue present with specific behaviour in relation to the cause of death. In 105 PMCT data sets of forensic cases, the entire lung volumes were segmented using the Mia Lite plug-in on Osirix. HU profiles of the lungs were generated and correlated to cause of death groups as assessed after forensic autopsy (cardiac death, fatal haemorrhage, craniocerebral injury, intoxication, drowning, hypothermia, hanging and suffocation). Especially cardiac death cases, intoxication cases, fatal haemorrhage cases and hypothermia cases showed very specific HU profiles. In drowning, the profiles showed two different behaviours representing wet and dry drowning. HU profiles rather varied in craniocerebral injury cases, hanging cases as well as in suffocation cases. HU profiles of the lungs segmented from PMCT data may support the cause of death diagnosis as they represent specific morphological changes in the lungs such as oedema, congestion or blood loss. Especially in cardiac death, intoxication, fatal haemorrhage, hypothermia and drowning cases, HU profiles may be very supportive for the forensic pathologist.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel Schober
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstr. 20, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Nicole Schwendener
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstr. 20, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Wolf-Dieter Zech
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstr. 20, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christian Jackowski
- Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Bern, Bühlstr. 20, CH-3012, Bern, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Makino Y, Itoda N, Ikegaya H, Tanaka N, Kinoshita H, Motomura A, Uno T, Iwase H. Search and removal of radioactive seeds: another application of postmortem computed tomography prior to autopsy. Int J Legal Med 2016; 130:1329-32. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1404-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
41
|
Performance of post-mortem CT compared to autopsy in children. Int J Legal Med 2016; 130:1089-1099. [PMID: 27221535 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1370-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2015] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Radiological techniques such as non-enhanced post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) play an increasingly important role in death investigations, especially in cases of non-medicolegal context of death, where the consent of the next of kin is required to perform autopsy. Such consent is often difficult to obtain for deceased children, and radiological methods may be an acceptable alternative. The aim of our study was to evaluate the performance of PMCT explorations compared to medicolegal conventional autopsies in children and its potential usefulness in non-medicolegal situations. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed a group of 26 children aged 0-12 years who died of different causes, which were investigated by both conventional autopsy and PMCT. We compared the findings extracted from radiological and autopsy reports. All findings were grouped according to their importance with respect to cause of death and to the anatomical structure they covered: organs, vascular system, soft tissue, and skeletal system. RESULTS A significantly larger number of findings were detected by autopsy compared to PMCT. Autopsy proved to be superior to PMCT, notably at detecting organ, soft tissue, and vascular findings, while PMCT was superior at detecting bone findings. However, no statistically significant differences were found between the methods concerning the essential findings used to define the cause of death. CONCLUSIONS In children, PMCT was less sensitive than conventional autopsy for detecting general findings. However, most essential findings were detected by both methods. PMCT was superior to autopsy for the detection of bone lesions in children. ADVANCES IN KNOWLEDGE Up to today, very rare literature exists concerning PMCT in children, especially in a forensic setting. This article investigates the advantages and limitations of PMCT compared to autopsy in a unique study group and discusses possibilities for future developments.
Collapse
|
42
|
Fischer H, Heinemann A. Arbeitsgemeinschaft für Forensische Bildgebung der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Rechtsmedizin. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-016-0096-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
43
|
Hasegawa I, Shimizu A, Saito A, Suzuki H, Vogel H, Püschel K, Heinemann A. Evaluation of post-mortem lateral cerebral ventricle changes using sequential scans during post-mortem computed tomography. Int J Legal Med 2016; 130:1323-8. [PMID: 27048214 PMCID: PMC4976059 DOI: 10.1007/s00414-016-1327-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2015] [Accepted: 02/03/2016] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
In the present study, we evaluated post-mortem lateral cerebral ventricle (LCV) changes using computed tomography (CT). Subsequent periodical CT scans termed “sequential scans” were obtained for three cadavers. The first scan was performed immediately after the body was transferred from the emergency room to the institute of legal medicine. Sequential scans were obtained and evaluated for 24 h at maximum. The time of death had been determined in the emergency room. The sequential scans enabled us to observe periodical post-mortem changes in CT images. The series of continuous LCV images obtained up to 24 h (two cases)/16 h (1 case) after death was evaluated. The average Hounsfield units (HU) within the LCVs progressively increased, and LCV volume progressively decreased over time. The HU in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) increased at an individual rate proportional to the post-mortem interval (PMI). Thus, an early longitudinal radiodensity change in the CSF could be potential indicator of post-mortem interval (PMI). Sequential imaging scans reveal post-mortem changes in the CSF space which may reflect post-mortem brain alterations. Further studies are needed to evaluate the proposed CSF change markers in correlation with other validated PMI indicators.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iwao Hasegawa
- Department of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, Hamburg, 22529, Germany. .,Department of Forensic Medicine, School of Medicine, Tokai University, Shimokasuya 143, Isehara, Kanagawa, 259-1193, Japan. .,Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Otsuka 4-21-18, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 112-0012, Japan.
| | - Akinobu Shimizu
- Institute of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Naka-cho 2-24-16, Koganei, Tokyo, 184-0012, Japan
| | - Atsushi Saito
- Institute of Engineering, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Naka-cho 2-24-16, Koganei, Tokyo, 184-0012, Japan
| | - Hideto Suzuki
- Tokyo Medical Examiner's Office, Otsuka 4-21-18, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 112-0012, Japan
| | - Hermann Vogel
- Department of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, Hamburg, 22529, Germany
| | - Klaus Püschel
- Department of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, Hamburg, 22529, Germany
| | - Axel Heinemann
- Department of Legal Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Butenfeld 34, Hamburg, 22529, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Schmitt-Sody M, Kurz S, Reiser M, Kanz KG, Kirchhoff C, Peschel O, Kirchhoff S. Analysis of death in major trauma: value of prompt post mortem computed tomography (pmCT) in comparison to office hour autopsy. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2016; 24:38. [PMID: 27025705 PMCID: PMC4812637 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-016-0231-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2015] [Accepted: 03/18/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background To analyze diagnostic accuracy of prompt post mortem Computed Tomography (pmCT) in determining causes of death in patients who died during trauma room management and to compare the results to gold standard autopsy during office hours. Methods Multiple injured patients who died during trauma room care were enrolled. PmCT was performed immediately followed by autopsy during office hours. PmCT and autopsy were analyzed primarily regarding pmCT ability to find causes of death and secondarily to define exact causes of death including accurate anatomic localizations. For the secondary analysis data was divided in group-I with equal results of pmCT and autopsy, group-II with autopsy providing superior results and group-III with pmCT providing superior information contributing to but not majorly causing death. Results Seventeen multiple trauma patients were enrolled. Since multiple trauma patients were enrolled more injuries than patients are provided. Eight patients sustained deadly head injuries (47.1 %), 11 chest (64.7 %), 4 skeletal system (23.5 %) injuries and one patient drowned (5.8 %). Primary analysis revealed in 16/17 patients (94.1 %) causes of death in accordance with autopsy. Secondary analysis revealed in 9/17 cases (group-I) good agreement of autopsy and pmCT. In seven cases autopsy provided superior results (group-II) whereas in 1 case pmCT found more information (group-III). Discussion The presented work studied the diagnostic value of pmCT in defining causes of death in comparison to standard autopsy. Primary analysis revealed that in 94.1% of cases pmCT was able to define causes of death even if only indirect signs were present. Secondary analysis showed that pmCT and autopsy showed equal results regarding causes of death in 52.9%. Conclusions PmCT is useful in traumatic death allowing for an immediate identification of causes of death and providing detailed information on bony lesions, brain injuries and gas formations. It is advisable to conduct pmCT especially in cases without consent to autopsy to gain information about possible causes of death and to rule out possible clinical errors.
Collapse
|
45
|
Hyodoh H, Shimizu J, Rokukawa M, Okazaki S, Mizuo K, Watanabe S. Postmortem computed tomography findings in the thorax – Experimental evaluation. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2016; 19:96-100. [DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2015.07.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2015] [Revised: 07/30/2015] [Accepted: 07/30/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
|
46
|
Sugimoto M, Hyodoh H, Rokukawa M, Kanazawa A, Murakami R, Shimizu J, Okazaki S, Mizuo K, Watanabe S. Freezing effect on brain density in postmortem CT. Leg Med (Tokyo) 2015; 18:62-5. [PMID: 26832379 DOI: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2015.12.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2015] [Revised: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 12/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Two 60-year-old males were found at their homes whose bodies had deteriorated due to putrefaction. To prevent worm invasion and minimize deterioration, dry ice was used prior to the autopsy investigation. Prior to autopsy, postmortem CT demonstrated a decreased density in brain parenchyma at the dry-iced side, and autopsy revealed deteriorated brain parenchyma with frozen effect (presented like sherbet). Moreover, the deteriorated cerebral parenchyma maintained their structure and they were evaluated by cutting. When lower CT density presents in postmortem CT, the freezing effect may need to be considered and the physician should evaluate the cadaver's postmortem condition to prevent misdiagnoses.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Miyu Sugimoto
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Hideki Hyodoh
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan.
| | - Masumi Rokukawa
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Ayumi Kanazawa
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Rina Murakami
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Junya Shimizu
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Shunichiro Okazaki
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Keisuke Mizuo
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| | - Satoshi Watanabe
- Department of Legal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, S1 W17 Chuo-ku, Sapporo 060-8556, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Filograna L, Magarelli N, Leone A, Guggenberger R, Winklhofer S, Thali MJ, Bonomo L. Value of monoenergetic dual-energy CT (DECT) for artefact reduction from metallic orthopedic implants in post-mortem studies. Skeletal Radiol 2015; 44:1287-94. [PMID: 25962510 DOI: 10.1007/s00256-015-2155-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2015] [Revised: 04/10/2015] [Accepted: 04/16/2015] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of this ex vivo study was to assess the performance of monoenergetic dual-energy CT (DECT) reconstructions to reduce metal artefacts in bodies with orthopedic devices in comparison with standard single-energy CT (SECT) examinations in forensic imaging. Forensic and clinical impacts of this study are also discussed. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty metallic implants in 20 consecutive cadavers with metallic implants underwent both SECT and DECT with a clinically suitable scanning protocol. Extrapolated monoenergetic DECT images at 64, 69, 88, 105, 120, and 130 keV and individually adjusted monoenergy for optimized image quality (OPTkeV) were generated. Image quality of the seven monoenergetic images and of the corresponding SECT image was assessed qualitatively and quantitatively by visual rating and measurements of attenuation changes induced by streak artefact. RESULTS Qualitative and quantitative analyses showed statistically significant differences between monoenergetic DECT extrapolated images and SECT, with improvements in diagnostic assessment in monoenergetic DECT at higher monoenergies. The mean value of OPTkeV was 137.6 ± 4.9 with a range of 130 to 148 keV. CONCLUSIONS This study demonstrates that monoenergetic DECT images extrapolated at high energy levels significantly reduce metallic artefacts from orthopedic implants and improve image quality compared to SECT examination in forensic imaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Filograna
- Department of Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 190/52, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
48
|
Effects of mechanical chest compression device with a load-distributing band on post-resuscitation injuries identified by post-mortem computed tomography. Resuscitation 2015; 96:226-31. [PMID: 26335044 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2015.08.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2015] [Revised: 07/21/2015] [Accepted: 08/16/2015] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) with AutoPulse™ (LDB-CPR) on post-resuscitation injuries identified by post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT). AutoPulse™ is a novel mechanical chest-compression device with a load-distributing band (LDB) that may affect post-resuscitation injury identified by PMCT. METHODS We conducted a retrospective cohort study of non-traumatic adult out-of-hospital cardiac arrest patients whose death was confirmed in our emergency department between October 2009 and September 2014. Patients were divided according to whether LDB-CPR (LDB-CPR group) or manual CPR only (manual CPR only group) was performed. The background characteristics and post-resuscitation injuries identified by PMCT were compared between both groups. Logistic regression was used to identify risk factors for posterior rib fracture and abdominal injury. RESULTS Overall, 323 patients were evaluated, with 241 (74.6%) in the LDB-CPR group. The total duration of CPR was significantly longer in the LDB-CPR group than in the manual CPR only group. Posterior rib fracture, hemoperitoneum, and retroperitoneal hemorrhage were significantly more frequent in the LDB-CPR group. The frequencies of anterior/lateral rib and sternum fracture were similar in both groups. Pneumothorax tended to be more frequent in the LDB-CPR group, although not significantly. LDB-CPR was an independent risk factor for posterior rib fracture (odds ratio 30.57, 95% confidence interval 4.15-225.49, P=0.001) and abdominal injury (odds ratio 4.93, 95% confidence interval 1.88-12.95, P=0.001). CONCLUSIONS LDB-CPR was associated with higher frequencies of posterior rib fracture and abdominal injury identified by PMCT. PMCT findings should be carefully examined after LDB-CPR.
Collapse
|
49
|
Jalalzadeh H, Giannakopoulos GF, Berger FH, Fronczek J, van de Goot FRW, Reijnders UJ, Zuidema WP. Post-mortem imaging compared with autopsy in trauma victims--A systematic review. Forensic Sci Int 2015; 257:29-48. [PMID: 26284976 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2015.07.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2015] [Revised: 06/25/2015] [Accepted: 07/13/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-mortem imaging or virtual autopsy is a rapidly advancing field of post-mortem investigations of trauma victims. In this review we evaluate the feasibility of complementation or replacement of conventional autopsy by post-mortem imaging in trauma victims. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic review was performed in compliance with the PRISMA guidelines. MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane databases were systematically searched for studies published between January 2008 and January 2014, in which post-mortem imaging was compared to conventional autopsy in trauma victims. Studies were included when two or more trauma victims were investigated. RESULTS Twenty-six studies were included, with a total number of 563 trauma victims. Post-mortem computer tomography (PMCT) was performed in 22 studies, post-mortem magnetic resonance imaging (PMMRI) in five studies and conventional radiography in two studies. PMCT and PMMRI both demonstrate moderate to high-grade injuries and cause of death accurately. PMCT is more sensitive than conventional autopsy or PMMRI in detecting skeletal injuries. For detecting minor organ and soft tissue injuries, autopsy remains superior to imaging. Aortic injuries are missed frequently by PMCT and PMMRI and form their main limitation. CONCLUSION PMCT should be considered as an essential supplement to conventional autopsy in trauma victims since it detects many additional injuries. Despite some major limitations, PMCT could be used as an alternative for conventional autopsy in situations where conventional autopsy is rejected or unavailable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Jalalzadeh
- Department of Trauma Surgery, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of General Surgery, Slotervaartziekenhuis, Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
| | - Georgios F Giannakopoulos
- Department of Trauma Surgery, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of General Surgery, Slotervaartziekenhuis, Louwesweg 6, 1066 EC Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Ferco H Berger
- Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Judith Fronczek
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Symbiant, Medisch Centrum Alkmaar, Wilhelminalaan 12, 1815 JD Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Frank R W van de Goot
- Department of Pathology, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands; Department of Pathology, Symbiant, Medisch Centrum Alkmaar, Wilhelminalaan 12, 1815 JD Alkmaar, The Netherlands
| | - Udo J Reijnders
- Department of Forensic Medicine, Public Health Service, P.O. Box 2200, 1000 CE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Wietse P Zuidema
- Department of Trauma Surgery, VU University Medical Centre, De Boelelaan 1117, 1081 HZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Makino Y, Yamamoto S, Shiotani S, Hayakawa H, Fujimoto H, Yokota H, Horikoshi T, Iwase H, Uno T. Can ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm be accurately diagnosed as the cause of death without postmortem computed tomography when autopsies cannot be performed? Forensic Sci Int 2015; 249:107-11. [DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2015.01.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/23/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|