Type:
Educational Exhibit
Keywords:
Imaging Informatics, Forensic / Necropsy studies, CT, Computer Applications-3D, Forensics, Retrospective, Observational, Performed at one institution
Authors:
A. Lupi1, L. Mondin2, A. viero2, M. Montisci1, R. Stramare2, G. Viel1, E. Quaia1, G. Cecchetto1, C. Giraudo1; 1Padova/IT, 2Padua/IT
DOI:
10.26044/ecr2020/C-15220
Background
Nowadays, forensic radiology is often applied in criminal investigations [1]. In particular, post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) plays a main role in this field [2-5]. Indeed, PMCT allows the collection, prior to the autopsy, of whole-body information in a short time and without being invasive [6-10].
Being CT imaging based on the representation of tissues according to their different attenuation of the radiation beam, PMCT is especially suitable for the assessment of the skeletal system. Thus, in the forensic setting, bone fractures due to traumatic and/or violent events can be easily diagnosed. Furthermore, skeletal variants can guide the identification of the victim. As well demonstrated in the literature, this technique can provide essential information also in case of charred cadavers allowing the detection not only of the typical alterations due to thermal injuries but also the identification of, for instance, gunshot wounds or fractures which could indicate a previous violent assault [9-12].
Among the numerous advantages carried by PMCT, the role of post-processing should not be overlooked. Indeed, various techniques like multiplanar reconstructions (MPR), volume rendering (VR), and shaded-surface display (SSD) can be applied on PMCT images and provide crucial information. In particular, according to the literature and to the experience gained in our center, each method can significantly contribute in specific settings.