Interdisziplinäre Schnittstellen bei der zweiten Leichenschau – Probleme und Optimierungsmöglichkeiten

Küppers, Lisa; Ritz-Timme, Stefanie und Hartung, Benno (2022): Interdisziplinäre Schnittstellen bei der zweiten Leichenschau – Probleme und Optimierungsmöglichkeiten. In: Rechtsmedizin, Vol. 33, No. 1: pp. 30-39

Abstract

Background In almost all German federal states a second post-mortem external examination before cremation/cross-border transfer of a body/body donation is prescribed by law. The aim of this procedure is to identify non-natural deaths and report them to investigative authorities. The procedure in cases of doubt consists of two steps constituting interdisciplinary interfaces to the first post-mortem examiner and to criminal investigative authorities. Aim of the study The aim was to identify problems at the interdisciplinary interfaces in the context of second post-mortem examination and find optimization possibilities. Methods A retrospective data assessment including documents from the years 2016-2019 was conducted. Data had been collected in cases of doubt during second post-mortem examination. Results Doubts concerning a natural death could particularly be resolved after consultation of the first post-mortem examiner when the reason of doubt had been formal errors as well as unexplained signs of medical procedures/injuries. Autopsy rates were low when cases had been reported to investigative authorities due to preceding accidents/acts of violence. Autopsies were mainly performed in cases with a medical background. Discussion Delays in the second post-mortem external examination could be avoided by simple measures on the part of the first post-mortem examiner. In order to prevent conflicts between second post-mortem examiners and investigative authorities, uniform criteria indicating further investigation at second post-mortem examination would be desirable. Uniform legal definitions of types of death as well as an indication catalogue for autopsies should be discussed. Cases with a medical background are of high relevance for the investigative authorities.

• Item Type: Journal article
• Faculties: Medicine
• Subjects: 600 Technology > 610 Medicine and health
• ISSN: 0937-9819
• Language: German