Intraosseous gas distribution as a marker of postmortem interval

Abstract

• Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been increasingly used for forensic purposes; • This Study was conducted by evaluation of post-mortem CT image in flood victims; • The findings and pattern of intraosseous gas distribution were investigated; • We have found 5 pattern with timing correlation; • The evaluation of the distribution patterns of intraosseous gas has the potential to be exploited as a valuable marker for estimation of PMI. The postmortem interval is probably the most important puzzle piece in clarifying the circumstances in case of death occurred in unknown conditions. Over the years, radio-imaging modalities have proved their worth in forensic field, providing additional and significant improvements and findings. CT-scan is characterized by wide availability, fast scan times and sustainable healthcare costs. Detection of gas, hemorrhage and bone fractures are points of strength of CT-scan. A reliable evaluation of the post-mortem interval is interesting in the victims of a mass disaster, also following a natural disaster, for the individuation of responsibility in the efficiency of the help and assistance. This work is based on the postmortem CT-scan evaluation of 26 people sadly died during a tragic flood occurred in 2009 in Giampilieri (Italy). In particular, the gas distribution within the skeletal bones was evaluated, with recognition of specific patterns that were then related to the time of death. The identification of intraosseous gas could represent a helpful tool in the estimation of postmortem interval.