Explore Our Wide Range Of Autopsy Services
The list below offers a basic look at the services Access to Forensics provides, but it is not meant to be all-inclusive. Some cases are complex and require a different perspective or approach. We have the expertise, the resources, and the flexibility to perform on many fronts and are confident we can provide the answers for you and your family.
Cause Autopsy
A highly specialized surgical procedure consists of a thorough post-mortem examination of a corpse to determine the cause and manner of death and evaluate any disease or injury that may be present.
Forensic Autopsy
A forensic autopsy is carried out when the cause of death may involve a criminal matter, medical malpractice, or other complex criteria which dictate a more thorough examination. Forensic autopsies often take 2-3 times longer to complete than a basic autopsy.
Second Autopsy
Second autopsies are often requested when the results of a forensic autopsy are unclear or incomplete. County coroners are often overburdened and under-staffed, and their autopsies may leave unanswered questions for a surviving family member. We are happy to provide a second opinion, regardless of why or who performed the first one.
Embalmed Autopsy
An autopsy can still be performed even after embalmment has occurred. The complexity of the case will dictate the approach for the pathologist.
Exhumation Autopsy
Sometimes, it may be necessary to exhume a body to answer lingering questions. We can provide you with resources for this process as well.
Infant Autopsy
Highly specialized autopsies were conducted on infants between 0-18 months.
Neurological Diagnosis
A post-mortem examination that identifies central nervous system ailments and conditions, including but not limited to:
Dementia can only be positively diagnosed through autopsy. These autopsies are often used to identify, treat and prevent hereditary diseases.
Mesothelioma Diagnosis
While mesothelioma may be diagnosed while a person is living, more often, it is not. This examination will confirm or eliminate any question about the presence of the disease and a condition known as asbestosis.
Toxicology Analysis
A post-mortem test can identify over 200 specific drugs, including various forms of alcohol.
Hair Strand Analysis
A post-mortem hair analysis can provide many answers but is often used to determine the presence of heavy metal poisoning.
DNA Analysis
Post-mortem DNA testing is most often used to determine parentage, to confirm or rule out the genetic connection between a child and a parent.
Forensic Medical Photography
Although similar to basic medical photography, forensic medical photography has different aims and objectives. The main consideration is that the images are taken primarily for legal reasons; therefore, the results must be accurate, detailed, and used in court. Our photographers understand the technical and related medical and legal requirements necessary to deliver the best images possible. Autopsy photography must produce the minimum delay to the autopsy and be extremely reliable, as the images are often not repeatable. You can trust us to complete the work efficiently and effectively.
Case Reviews
Professional case reviews are conducted before a second-opinion autopsy. If a third party performs an autopsy for you and you want someone to review the case before considering a second autopsy, we'll be happy to do so.