AUTHOR=Gascho Dominic 

TITLE=VIRTual autOPSY—applying CT and MRI for modern forensic death investigations

JOURNAL=Frontiers in Radiology

VOLUME=Volume 5 - 2025

YEAR=2025

URL=https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/radiology/articles/10.3389/fradi.2025.1557636

DOI=10.3389/fradi.2025.1557636

ISSN=2673-8740

ABSTRACT=Virtual autopsy, an advanced forensic technique, utilizes cutting-edge imaging technologies such as computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate the cause and manner of death without the need for physical dissection. By creating detailed, three-dimensional data of the entire body or specific areas of interest, these post-mortem imaging modalities provide a comprehensive, non-invasive approach to examining decedents. This article explores the historical development of virtual autopsy, its current applications in forensic medicine, and its promising future. It highlights the crucial roles of CT and MRI in forensic death investigations, while also addressing the challenges and limitations associated with these imaging techniques in post-mortem examinations.