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Post-mortem
A post- mortem is a medical examination of a body.
A coroner can request a post- mortem. (see entry on Inquests) This is carried out by a pathologist (a medical doctor trained in diagnosis and study of disease) designated by the coroner.
A post- mortem may also be performed if requested by the hospital or a close relative; this is performed by a pathologist working in a hospital. The relatives must give the hospital clear and detailed written consent to the post- mortem. Relatives may consent to a full or limited post- mortem.
First the pathologist examines the external body; this may involve photos and X rays. An incision in then made in the chest and the internal organs are removed and examined. Small tissue samples may be further examined under the microscope.
Clear communications and written consent applies to the retention of tissue and body parts to both post mortems, those ordered by the Coroner and those agreed upon between relatives and hospitals. Organs or tissues cannot be taken from the body for any purpose except to establish the cause of death unless written consent is given by relatives.
In some cases with written agreement organs and tissues are retained in pathology departments and used for teaching or research. The removal of organs and tissues from the body after death during the post-mortem can be an important tool in increasing understanding of disease and improving clinical care and standards.
The post- mortem is normally carried out within a couple of days after death and the body is released on the day of the post mortem so funeral arrangements are not delayed. If a very complex or detailed examination is necessary, the funeral may need to be delayed especially if relatives wish for any retained tissue or body parts to be reunited with the body.
The full report is sent to the deceased person’s consultant, GP and the coroner if it was the coroner who requested the post-mortem. A full report or a report in non-medical language will also be sent to the relative if requested.
