Authors
Riya Ghosh
Abstract
The term VIRTOPSY was coined from the words virtual and autopsy: Virtual is derived from the Latin word 'virtus', which means 'useful, effective, and good'. Autopsy is derived from the ancient Greek words 'autos' (self) and 'opsomei' (I will see). Thus, autopsy means 'to see with one’s own eyes'. Because we wanted to erase the subjectivity of "autos," we combined the terms virtual and autopsy, removing the "autos" to form VIRTOPSY. Today, the name VIRTOPSY, which unifies study issues under a single scientific umbrella, is distinguished by a transdisciplinary research methodology that connects forensic domains to an international scientific network. Virtual autopsy, also known as digital or non-invasive autopsy, is a cutting-edge technique that has emerged as a promising adjunct to traditional post-mortem examinations. This process employs advanced imaging technologies and computerized analysis to render the 3D images of the scanned data of the body and explore the human body in a virtual environment. By combining high-resolution imaging techniques such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with sophisticated visualization and analysis software, virtual autopsies offer numerous advantages over conventional autopsies while providing invaluable insights into the cause and circumstances of death. In cases like thanatological investigations, carbonised and putrefied body identifications, mass disaster cases, age estimation, anthropological studies, and skin lesion assessments, virtual autopsy uses high-tech medical imaging approaches to provide more effective and more accurate visualisation. Despite its potential, virtual autopsy also faces challenges. The availability of specialized imaging equipment and the need for trained personnel limit its widespread adoption. Additionally, virtual autopsies may have limitations in detecting certain types of injuries or subtle pathological changes that can be better assessed through traditional autopsies. However, the accuracy of virtual autopsy is 98% and advancements in technology are likely to lead to improved imaging techniques, including higher resolution scans and faster data processing, resulting in more detailed and accurate virtual reconstructions of the body. Integration with artificial intelligence and machine learning algorithms may enable automated analysis of digital data, aiding in the identification of patterns, anomalies, and potential causes of death. Keywords: Post Mortem Examination, Virtual Autopsy, Forensic Investigations
Introduction
Forensic analysis is a key tool in detection the truth behind incidents like crimes, accidents, and natural disasters. It involves thorough examination and interpretation of physical evidence to reconstruct events and ascertain causes of death or injury. Traditional autopsy methods have been central to forensic investigations, providing critical insights into the circumstances of a person's demise. However, they have limitations, particularly in cases involving advanced decomposition, severe trauma, or religious concerns. To address these challenges, virtual autopsy, also known as post-mortem imaging or digital autopsy, has emerged as a promising alternative. This non-invasive approach utilizes advanced imaging technologies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to create detailed three-dimensional representations of the body. Virtual autopsies offer numerous benefits over traditional methods, including the ability to examine internal structures without invasive procedures, preservation of evidence for future analysis, and compatibility with cultural and religious practices (Lorkiewicz-Muszyńska, et al., 2012; Joseph, et al., 2018).
The abrupt death of a young person frequently prompts suspicions of foul play, and criminal investigators have no choice but to seek help from forensic pathologists. In India, inquests in these matters are conducted under Section 174 of the CrPC (Lorkiewicz-Muszyńska, et al., 2012). However, during the COVID-19 pandemic, the government (Lee, et al., 2002; Joseph, et al., 2018), as well as various international scientific groups (Buck, et al., 2007; Charlie et al., 2012; Michaud et al., 2022) issued numerous guidelines against doing autopsies in COVID patients, making this extremely difficult. In this scenario, whole-body PMCT examination, which is commonly used in many countries in virtual autopsy, can be used in conjunction with other non-invasive/minimally-invasive procedures (Fais et al., 2016; Jeffery et al., 2008). In circumstances when the deceased has already been medically treated, the forensic pathologist can examine all antemortem medical data. However, this luxury may not be available in the event of a sudden death. The postmortem CT findings were suitably interpreted in light of both the clinical history and the postmortem examination results. After reviewing the medical records, external examination findings, and whole-body PMCT findings, it was determined that "Cerebral edoema with bilateral tonsillar herniation consequent to hypertensive intracerebral bleed" was the cause of death in this COVID-19 case, and the mode of death was classified as natural. Both the IO and the relatives were told on the techniques used in the investigation, and any concerns they had were addressed.
This review aims to explore the background and significance of forensic analysis, highlight the limitations of traditional autopsy methods, introduce virtual autopsy as a viable alternative, and outline the objectives of further investigation into its potential benefits.
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| APA Style | Ghosh, R. (2024). Beyond the Scalpel: Exploring Virtual Autopsy for Forensic Analysis – A comprehensive Review. Academic Journal of Forensic Sciences, 07(01), 01–09. |
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