Overview of Advances in Forensic Radiological Methods of Human Identification

Shortly after the discovery of X-rays in 1895, radiological methods have been widely used to assist in examination of human remains, contributing to the identification and investigative process. In our modern era when the invasive nature of some forensic medical procedures are increasingly at odds with the acceptable norms of society, medical imaging techniques enable the noninvasive examination of remains in a variety of states of decomposition. Recent advances in computer technology have revolutionized medical imaging methods which now employ radioactive materials, sound waves, and magnetic fields in addition to X-ray technology. This chapter reviews the current contribution of postmortem medical imaging methods to forensic skeletal human identification, discussing applications, equipment, and techniques used together with their relative advantages and disadvantages. It discusses current developments within the field and highlights the opportunities and challenges that forensic practitioners face when examining skeletal remains.