High throughput adult cadaver axial imaging: service logistics and requirements

It remains unknown to date the extent of the potential role of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in autopsy practice in the United Kingdom (UK). If CT and/or MRI were accepted to have a role beyond that already been undertaken within the UK and implemented on a national high throughput scale, what impact would it have upon the National Health System (NHS) where, in the UK, the majority of mortuary facilities and practitioners work? This symposium paper explores the logistics, personnel and facilities that may be required to assist those contemplating developing such a provision of service. The discussion presented is based upon the concept that all cadavers normally subjected to invasive medico-legal (coroner’s) autopsy would be imaged following receipt at an NHS hospital located mortuary. It is based on the experience of the East Midlands Forensic Pathology Unit and Imaging Department, University Hospitals of Leicester in examining cadavers using CT within the NHS where all of these problems have been encountered previously.