What is an Autopsy?
Most people have heard the word “autopsy” at some point, but what exactly is an autopsy, and how is the procedure performed? An autopsy is a medical examination of a deceased person that allows the cause of death to be determined.
The word autopsy comes from the ancient Greek word autopsia meaning “to see with one’s own eyes” or “seeing for oneself”. Originally, the word referred to personal observation and had nothing to do with death. Over time, its meaning changed to refer to the examination of a dead body and later became the word to describe the surgical dissection of a dead body to find a cause of death.
Why Autopsies are Performed
Autopsies may be performed for several reasons including:
- Determining the cause of an unexpected or suspicious death, including possible crime related deaths
- Identifying unknown disease outbreaks, infections, or poisonings for public health safety
- Contributing to medical research to help improve diagnosis and treatment of diseases in living patients
Who Performs an Autopsy?
Autopsies are conducted by pathologists, though the type of pathologist involved depends on the circumstance. Forensic pathologists typically handle deaths that are suspicious, violent, or potentially related to crime, while other pathologists may examine patients who died from medical conditions or deaths that may provide important information about a disease or treatment. Depending on the case, a coroner, also known as an elected official who investigates deaths, may be present.
How the Procedure Works
The examination begins with a thorough external examination of the body. This allows for identifying features including scars, self harm, signs of disease, and other physical findings to be evaluated.
This is followed by an internal examination. The pathologist makes an incision to access the organs and internal structures, checking for abnormalities, injuries, or signs of disease. Samples of blood, other bodily fluids, and tissues may be collected for further laboratory analysis.
The results of an autopsy are not always available immediately. Some findings may be available within hours, while others, such as a toxicology report, may take several weeks.
Conclusion
Ultimately, an autopsy is far more than simply examining a body after death. It is a detailed medical investigation that combines visual observation, dissection, laboratory testing, and other forms of analysis to help determine what actually happened.
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