Forensic Radiology

Abstract

Forensic radiology encompasses the acquisition, interpretation, and reporting of radiologic images for the purpose of medicolegal investigations including, but not limited to, cases presented in a court of law. Any case can become part of a forensic investigation. Most of the imaging tools available to clinical medicine are also applicable to forensic investigations. Radiography (x-ray) is the oldest and most widely used modality; however, postmortem computed tomography (PMCT) and postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (PMMRI) are gaining interest in the forensic community. Image guidance can be utilized for procedures and angiography can be used to delineate complex vascular anatomy. PMCT has proved useful in cases involving blunt force trauma, firearm injuries, and identification of human remains. Other potential applications include cases of abuse, hanging, attempted strangulation, decomposition, thermal injuries, religious opposition to autopsy, and mass casualty situations. Many studies support the use of forensic radiology to complement and, in specific cases, replace conventional autopsy. Forensic radiology is evolving in the United States; however, cost, availability, and quality remain key obstacles. The field lacks standardization of training for personnel performing and interpreting forensic radiography. Furthermore, the literature lacks large-scale double-blinded studies for specific injury categories. Once validated applications are better defined and quality standards are established, forensic radiology has the potential to improve forensic diagnostic productivity by merging the skills of forensic pathologists and radiologists.