Imaging Techniques for Forensic Radiology in Living Individuals

Abstract

Forensic radiology is the application of diagnostic imaging used like source of information in medico-legal issues, because with its technology and examinations it can establish a source for scientific evidence that can be reliable and precise; moreover every diagnostic imaging examination can be considered a forensic examination (Kudlad et al., The state of forensic radiography in the United States, American Society of Radiologic Technologists, Albuquerque, NM, 2010). Judge Owen E. Lefevre was the first USA judge to admit radiographs as evidence in a civil case in 1896 (Adams, An introduction to forensic imaging). From that year, the use of computed tomography (CT) in forensic investigation is growing and even other technologies that were used just for clinically purpose are now considered useful for forensic investigation.

Forensic radiology comprises, at first instance, digital radiography and CT. All forensic examinations and procedures are performed with quality and safety as priorities. This practice involves hospitals, private physician offices and outpatient imaging centres and the produced images are useful clinically and legally. Therefore it is very important to ensure that the radiology technicians, who practically produce the image, understand the medical-legal aspects and that every patient may be a victim of non-accidental injuries (Adams, An introduction to forensic imaging).