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Published in: Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology 2/2012

01-06-2012 | Original Article

Role of forensic pathologists in mass disasters

Authors: Yves Schuliar, Peter Juel Thiis Knudsen

Published in: Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology | Issue 2/2012

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Abstract

The forensic pathologist has always had a central role in the identification of the dead in every day practice, in accidents, and in disasters involving hundreds or thousands of victims. This role has changed in recent years, as advances in forensic odontology, genetics and anthropology have improved the chances of identifying victims beyond recognition. According to the Interpol DVI Guide, fingerprints, dental examination and DNA are the primary identifiers, and this has given new emphasis to the role of the forensic pathologist as the leader of a multidisciplinary team of experts in a disaster situation, based on his or her qualifications and the experience gained from doing the same work in the everyday situation of an institute of forensic medicine.
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Metadata
Title
Role of forensic pathologists in mass disasters
Authors
Yves Schuliar
Peter Juel Thiis Knudsen
Publication date
01-06-2012
Publisher
Springer US
Published in
Forensic Science, Medicine and Pathology / Issue 2/2012
Print ISSN: 1547-769X
Electronic ISSN: 1556-2891
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s12024-011-9300-3

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