Postmortem Imaging in the UAE
摘要
Postmortem (PM) imaging was first introduced to the UAE via Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. A huge budget was allocated for the preparation of local human resources and the foundation of a modern central morgue by the Executive Council of Abu Dhabi (Government of Abu Dhabi). Infectious control and staff health and safety were major benefits of applying PM imaging services in Abu Dhabi during the COVID-19 pandemic. Contrast angiography and ventilated PMCT have revolutionized postmortem investigations in both forensic and natural death cases. This is due to the dramatic increase in the sensitivity of the PMCT with contrast administration. Lung expansion by the ventilated PMCT technique enhances diagnostic ability by decreasing ground-glass attenuation and postmortem lividity. Despite its limitations, some subtle, occult, or hazardous injuries and diseases are more likely to be detected easily by PMCT but remain difficult to identify through a traditional autopsy. This PMCT service could serve as a triage technique, help decide which autopsy method is most suitable, and add value to the external examination and toxicology. Currently, it is reported that PM imaging exceeds the standards set and meets both families and coroners’ needs in terms of efficiency, time, and cost. This chapter reviews PMCT services and discusses the expanded role of radiology in forensic autopsy, as well as its cultural and religious acceptance in the local community.