Abstract

ABSTRACT Identifying unknown deceased individuals, especially those in advanced stages of decomposition, dismemberment, or burning, is a major medico-legal challenge. Forensic anthropologists play a crucial role in these cases due to the numerous characteristics that can be derived from bone remains. Their methods help evaluate the biological profile and individual characteristics, narrowing potential matches. This research investigates the identification methods used by forensic anthropologists in Medicolegal Institutes and Medical Examiner’s Offices in Brazil and the USA. Case reports from forensic anthropology institutes in Vitória, Rio de Janeiro, Porto Velho (Brazil), and New York City (USA) were analysed. In resolved cases, details such as the biological profile, trauma, decomposition extent, and individualization markers were documented. Statistical tests evaluated the association between these variables and identification outcomes. Conventional identification methods included dental analysis, DNA testing, and fingerprint analysis. Additionally, Bayesian methods, visual identification, prosthetics, and X-ray comparison proved useful. This study highlights that forensic anthropologists can employ a variety of methodologies beyond standard practices, enhancing the identification process in complex cases.

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