Usefulness of unenhanced post mortem computed tomography - Findings in postmortem non-contrast computed tomography of the head, neck and spine compared to traditional medicolegal autopsy

For several locations, structures, and specific findings in the head, neck and spine, autopsy remains indispensable. However, PMCT better demonstrated some findings in locations that are difficult to access by autopsy, or structures that might be damaged due to autopsy procedure. For the examinations of these, PMCT may in specific cases serve as an alternative to autopsy. Generally, however, due to the vast and fundamental differences that distinguish each case from the next, and the different purposes that autopsy may serve, we propose that the decision as to which method (or a combination of both) should be used, be made according to the circumstances and expected findings of each case.