Gunshot injuries detected by post-mortem multislice computed tomography (MSCT): a feasibility study

Leg Med (Tokyo). 2008 Nov;10(6):287-92. doi: 10.1016/j.legalmed.2008.03.005. Epub 2008 May 15.

Abstract

Modern cross-sectional imaging techniques are being increasingly implemented in forensic pathology. These methods may serve as an adjuvant to classic forensic autopsies or even replace them altogether in the future. In order to assess the practicability of such a method, namely post-mortem multislice computed tomography (MSCT) in fatal gunshot injuries, 22 corpses underwent such an examination prior to forensic autopsy. The cardinal questions of the location of entrance and exit wounds, the detection of bullets and bullet fragments in the body, the bullet course, inflicted injuries and cause of death were addressed at MSCT and autopsy. The results of the two techniques revealed that post-mortem MSCT can answer these questions reliably and is therefore a useful tool in the assessment of such injuries.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Feasibility Studies
  • Female
  • Forensic Ballistics
  • Forensic Pathology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed*
  • Wounds, Gunshot / diagnostic imaging*
  • Wounds, Gunshot / pathology
  • Young Adult