A post-mortem examination, also known as an autopsy, is a medical procedure performed on a deceased individual to determine the cause of death. This examination is typically conducted by a forensic pathologist, who carefully inspects the body and may analyze tissues and organs. The findings can provide crucial information for legal investigations, public health, and understanding disease processes.
During a post-mortem, various techniques are used, including visual inspection, dissection, and laboratory tests. The results are documented in a report, which can be used in court cases or to inform family members. This process is essential for ensuring accurate death certification and can help improve medical knowledge related to specific conditions.