Age estimation of decomposed bodies based on a combined arteriosclerotic index

•It was tested whether the combined arteriosclerotic index (CAI) is a valid parameter for decayed bodies.•The CAI loses accuracy with increasing decomposition processes.•However it remains a useful tool which should be followed by the application of methods with higher accuracy.

Several methods exist for the estimation of the age at the time of death, ranging from mere visual inspection to costly laboratory examinations. The “combined arteriosclerotic index (CAI)” is considered to be a suitable low-budget tool for undecayed corpses. It defines the ratio between diameter and longitudinal pre-strain of the abdominal aorta. Its applicability in cases of decomposed corpses has not been studied yet. We examined whether it is a valid parameter in putrefied bodies as well and whether there is a correlation between CAI and the stage of decomposition. In conclusion the CAI becomes less accurate with increasing putrefaction. Nonetheless, even in case of high-grade putrefaction it remains a useful tool for instant age estimation which should be followed by the application of methods with higher accuracy.