Embalming artifacts
Rivers, R.L.
Journal of Forensic Sciences 23(3): 531-535
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0022-1198 PMID: 744984 Document Number: 4074
Exacting accuracy is a necessity for the forensic scientist, but that accuracy becomes a challenge when the scientist is faced with common or unusual mortuary procedures that have simulated or disguised antemortem conditions of the body. The forensic scientist can spend many difficult hours attempting to correctly interpret the postmortem insult if he is not familiar with techniques used by morticians in the preparation of a body for burial. Should the condition of the body be incorrectly analyzed, the result could be the acquittal of a person guilty of murder, or worse, the conviction of an innocent person. The injection of embalming fluids, aspiration of blood from the body cavities, sanitization of the body, and application of cosmetics have been shown to (1) simulate injury and disease to the head, heart, and lungs; (2) mask facial and head injuries; (3) alter surgical procedures and wounds; and (4) eradicate trace evidence and postmortem changes. Autopsies on embalmed bodies require an extra degree of awareness that should be enhanced by a familiarity with mortuary methods.
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