FOR5020 Post mortem CT imaging

The aim of this unit is to provide an insight into the application and interpretation of cross-sectional imaging in the medico-legal environment.

It will concentrate predominately on post-mortem imaging using CT.

The unit is structured around body areas i.e. head, chest, abdomen, musculoskeletal, etc., but will also explore paediatric applications and specific medico-legal aspects.

The unit will enable student to have fundamental understanding of the physics and principles of CT scanning, confidence in viewing post-mortem CT images, an understanding of the artefacts associated with CT scanning, a knowledge of CT correlates of the pathological artefacts of death, ability to recognize forensically significant CT findings in all anatomical areas, ability to integrate CT findings into the work practices of a forensic practitioner, awareness of newer post-mortem CT techniques such as angiography and guided-biopsy and other imaging modalities such as MRI and Ultrasound, ability to perform basic CT image manipulation on a thin-client workstation, familiarity with Victoria's coronial system and the impact that CT scanning has on the workings of a coroner, insight into construction of a medico-legal radiology report, and an understanding of the requirements of an expert witness in giving evidence using cross-sectional imaging.