Why autopsies are performed

Autopsies can be divided into two main types: the forensic or medico-legal and the medical or clinical. The type performed depends on the reason for the autopsy. A forensic autopsy is performed by a coroner or medical examiner with medico-legal authority within the jurisdiction where the death occurred.

These autopsies are performed in service of the law. For example, when a young, apparently healthy adult suddenly dies, an investigation into why that person died must occur to determine cause of death.

The investigation also aims to discover how they died to determine the manner of death. This helps determine whether the death was natural, such as by a previously undetected natural disease, or unnatural due to poisoning, overdose or even foul play. First, a visual exam of the entire body is done, including the organs and internal structures.

Then, microscopic, chemical, and microbiological exams may be made of the organs, fluids, and tissues. All organs removed for examination are weighed, and a section is preserved for processing into microscopic slides. Autopsies may last 2 to 4 hours. There are a variety of reasons that the autopsy would be considered a technical only autopsy. Examples include 1 the removal of hardware to be sent back to the manufacturer for testing, and 2 the removal of brain or other tissue to be sent out to another facility.

Autopsies have been performed on individuals of all religious backgrounds, and many major religions leave this decision to the next-of-kin. However, you may wish to consult with your priest, minister, rabbi, or other religious leader before providing consent for an autopsy. Skip to Main Content Reasons for an Autopsy. Technical Only The restrictions on the autopsy consent dictate whether the autopsy is considered to be a technical only. Religious Considerations Autopsies have been performed on individuals of all religious backgrounds, and many major religions leave this decision to the next-of-kin.

The death is unexpected and unexplained in an infant or child. The death is associated with police action. The death is apparently non-natural and in custody of a local, state, or federal institution. The death is due to acute workplace injury.