Autopsy decisions are usually made at a time when family members are already feeling vulnerable and overwhelmed. Here are some tips to help you decide whether to seek an autopsy and what to expect if you decide to go ahead.
Will an autopsy be useful?
An autopsy will generally provide additional information about the cause of death, and it may also turn up previously unknown information about the deceased's health issues. It's not unusual for an autopsy to uncover previously unrecognized medical conditions, and in some cases, if the disease has a genetic basis, these may have implications for survivors. If Alzheimer's disease is suspected, an autopsy is the only means to provide a definitive diagnosis and a final answer about what caused the person's dementia.
Autopsies: An article in Monday's Health section about arranging a private autopsy said that after the procedure, incisions are closed in a manner that renders them nearly invisible. In fact, after an autopsy large sutures are often used to close an incision. The embalmer later closes the incision with smaller stitches, but these are still visible. Incisions are made in areas that are hidden by clothes, however, and incisions in the head are generally made in the back and can be concealed by hair or a pillow.
Ultimately, the decision is a personal one that only you can make.
Who do you ask?
Start with the deceased person's doctor. If the doctor resists the idea, don't give up. The decision is yours, not the physician's. If the doctor is uncooperative, contact the coroner's office for help arranging the autopsy. The Los Angeles County coroner's office, for example, can be reached at (323) 343-0512; check the phone book for others.
Who will perform the autopsy?
If the person died in a hospital, you might be able to have the autopsy done there. Medical schools are another place to turn, and they sometimes offer lower rates than private pathologists. If those options aren't available, ask your doctor, the funeral home or the local coroner for a referral. The College of American Pathologists ( www.cap.org) maintains a list of board-certified pathologists who perform autopsies on a fee-for-service basis.
If your loved one suffered from dementia, the Alzheimer's Assn. in Los Angeles, www.alz.org/californiasouth land) can help you find a research facility or hospital that will conduct a brain autopsy. Some autopsy providers are also listed in the phone book.
What does an autopsy involve?
An autopsy begins with an examination of the body to look for outward signs of illness or trauma, such as bruises or abrasions. Next, the pathologist makes an incision in the chest cavity to access the heart, lungs and other organs. Each organ is examined for signs of disease and weighed to help quantify any atrophy or abnormal growth that's present. Another incision is made behind the ears to permit an examination of the brain. After examination, organs are returned to the body.
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- Names in the News Oct 13, 1988
