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International Journal of Legal Medicine

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01-07-2016 | Original Article

Post-mortem CT and MR brain imaging of putrefied corpses

Authors: J. Tschui, C. Jackowski, N. Schwendener, C. Schyma, W. D. Zech

Published in: International Journal of Legal Medicine | Issue 4/2016

Abstract

Introduction

Putrefaction of the brain is a challenge to a forensic pathologist because it may lead to considerable organ alterations and restrict documenting reliable autopsy findings.

Objectives

This study aims to present a new and systematic evaluation of possible benefits of post-mortem MR Neuroimaging (1.5 Tesla, sequences: T1w, T2w) in putrefied corpses in comparison to PMCT and autopsy.

Methods

A post-mortem MRI brain examination was conducted on 35 adult, putrefied corpses after performing a whole body CT scan prior to a forensic autopsy. Imaging data and autopsy findings were compared with regard to brain symmetry, gray and white matter junction, ventricular system, basal ganglia, cerebellum, brain stem, and possible pathological findings.

Results

At autopsy, a reliable assessment of the anatomical brain structures was often restricted. MR imaging offered an assessment of the anatomical brain structures, even at advanced stages of putrefaction. In two cases, MR imaging revealed pathological findings that were detectable neither by CT scans nor at autopsy.

Conclusions

Post-mortem MR imaging of putrefied brains offers the possibility to assess brain morphology, even if the brain is liquefied. Post-mortem MR imaging of the brain should be considered if the assessment of a putrefied brain is crucial to the evaluation of a forensic autopsy case.

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Title: Post-mortem CT and MR brain imaging of putrefied corpses
Authors: J. Tschui
C. Jackowski
N. Schwendener
C. Schyma
W. D. Zech
Publication date: 01-07-2016
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: International Journal of Legal Medicine / Issue 4/2016
Print ISSN: 0937-9827
Electronic ISSN: 1437-1596
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00414-016-1385-5

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Post-mortem CT and MR brain imaging of putrefied corpses

Abstract

Introduction

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Introduction

Objectives

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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