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Published in: Japanese Journal of Radiology 2/2012

01-02-2012 | Case report

Postmortem computed tomography images of a broken piece of a weapon in the skull

Authors: Yusuke Kawasumi, Yoshiyuki Hosokai, Akihito Usui, Haruo Saito, Tadashi Ishibashi, Masato Funayama

Published in: Japanese Journal of Radiology | Issue 2/2012

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Abstract

The use of post-mortem radiological imaging is becoming increasing widespread in forensic medicine. These images can help improve the quality and safety of autopsy. We report two cases of homicide victims that had broken pieces of a weapon in their skull. Postmortem multislice computed tomography (MSCT) demonstrated metal artifacts in the skull of two homicide cases. Autopsy showed that both artifacts were pieces broken off of a sharp instrument. Some possible benefits of postmortem MSCT include the ability to reconstruct visual images of weapons and the possible prevention of injury to autopsy personnel.
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Metadata
Title
Postmortem computed tomography images of a broken piece of a weapon in the skull
Authors
Yusuke Kawasumi
Yoshiyuki Hosokai
Akihito Usui
Haruo Saito
Tadashi Ishibashi
Masato Funayama
Publication date
01-02-2012
Publisher
Springer Japan
Published in
Japanese Journal of Radiology / Issue 2/2012
Print ISSN: 1867-1071
Electronic ISSN: 1867-108X
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s11604-011-0018-7

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