Autopsy Basics
What is another name for an autopsy?
post-mortem examination
Which manner of death involves intentionally taking one’s own life?
Suicide
Which exam happens first during an autopsy?
External Exam
What shape incision is commonly used to open the body?
Y-shaped incision
What eye fluid is tested to estimate time since death?
vitreous humor/ocular fluid
What is the main purpose of an autopsy?
determining the cause of death
Which manner of death means the cause is unknown and requires investigation?
Undermined
What evidence might be collected from under a victim’s fingernails?
DNA from suspect or trace evidence
What bone is checked to help determine strangulation?
Hyoid Bone
What happens to potassium levels the longer someone has been dead?
Decrease
What type of deaths usually require an autopsy?
suspicious, unusual, or child deaths
What cause of death results from lack of oxygen and water in the lungs?
Drowning
Petechiae in the eyes may indicate what type of death?
Strangulation
What does “En Masse” mean?
Removing all organs at once
Why is the scalp folded over the face during brain removal?
preserve the face for funerals
Who performs an autopsy?
medical examiner/forensic pathologist
What type of injury can cause excessive blood loss and organ damage?
A stabbing
What can lividity show us?
Time of death
Which organs are commonly sent for toxicology testing?
What are the liver and kidneys?
What tool is used to open the skull?
electric saw
How many years of schooling does a forensic pathologist usually complete after high school?
About 12 years
Name the five manners of death.
natural, homicide, suicide, accident, and undetermined
Why are X-rays taken before the internal exam
locate injuries or foreign objects like bullets
Which body system controls both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems?
The nervous system
Besides trauma, what are two things examined in the brain?
infection and abnormalities?