Which Organs Are Removed During a Post-Mortem?
During a post-mortem examination, or autopsy, organs are removed to facilitate a thorough investigation into the cause of death. The specific organs removed vary depending on the circumstances surrounding the death and the information sought by the pathologist.
Generally, the organs of the chest and abdomen are removed for further examination. This often includes, but is not limited to:
- Heart
- Lungs
- Liver
- Spleen
- Kidneys
- Stomach
- Intestines
- Bladder
Sometimes, the brain is also removed for detailed analysis. The removal of organs is a necessary part of the examination process, allowing for a more detailed and comprehensive investigation. (Report of Dr. Deirdre Madden on Post Mortem Practice and ...) After examination, organs are typically returned to the body unless further testing or retention is required, which always requires explicit consent from the coroner or next of kin. (What happens during a post mortem)
Purpose of Organ Removal
The removal of organs allows pathologists to:
- Examine them closely for signs of disease, injury, or infection.
- Conduct microscopic examination of tissue samples (histology) to identify abnormalities at a cellular level.
- Perform toxicology tests to detect the presence of drugs, poisons, or other substances.
The specific procedures and organs examined will always vary on a case-by-case basis, depending on the reason for the post-mortem. (Post mortem examinations)
Important Considerations
- The process is conducted according to strict ethical and legal guidelines.
- No material is retained without consent. (What happens during a post mortem)
- The goal is to determine the cause and manner of death. (Autopsy - Wikipedia)
