An autopsy is a surgical procedure to examine the body and its internal organs after death.
An autopsy is not done after every death. An autopsy may be performed at the request of the family or doctor. Reasons for autopsy include:
Before an autopsy, there must be positive identification of the body and an autopsy permit signed by the legal next-of-kin. The body is transported to the morgue and held in a refrigeration unit until the autopsy.
Autopsies follow this general procedure:
Once the autopsy is complete, the body is sewn back together. Procedures vary regarding organ replacement; dissected organs may be returned to the body or incinerated. If the organs are not returned to the body, the mortician will put filler in the body cavity to retain the body's shape.
Tissue samples are sent to a lab for analysis. Results are available within a few weeks, and a final autopsy report is usually completed in 30 to 60 days.
The autopsy typically takes 2-4 hours, depending on the reason and level of complexity.
RESOURCES:
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
http://www.ahrq.gov/
Family Doctor
http://familydoctor.org/
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Institutes of Health Research
http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/
Health Canada
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index-eng.php/
References:
Uthman, E. American Board of Pathology website. Available at: http://www.abpath.org/default.aspx.
Last reviewed November 2009 by Rosalyn Carson-DeWitt, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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