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What is an autopsy and
when should one be conducted?
An autopsy is also called a postmortem examination. It is a surgical
examination (cutting open) of the body after death. Sometimes, by
doing an autopsy the cause of death can be more precisely
determined. This may be important to other members of the family. It
also might help doctors and nurses improve care to future patients.
Talk with your family, clergy, doctor and nurse about this.
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What is the procedure
for getting an autopsy?
The next of kin or a legally responsible party can request an
autopsy and must sign a consent form. Under certain circumstances a
medical examiner (Coroner's Office) may perform an autopsy without
the family's permission.
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What is the procedure
for an autopsy?
Specially trained physicians called pathologists perform the
autopsy. They look at the outside part of the body and examine
internal organs for clues as to the cause of death. Body tissue is
examined by direct vision and under the microscope. The body is
treated with dignity at all times during this procedure.
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What is the cost of an
autopsy?
Most autopsies are performed without charge because they help to
advance medical science and help doctors and nurses improve medical
care for future patients with similar problems. Private autopsies
may be arranged by the family at a cost usually ranging from
$800-$1,500.
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Can the family request
that the autopsy be limited to certain areas of the body only?
An autopsy can often be limited to certain body areas. For example,
if your doctor or nurse believes that the cause of death came from
within the chest, you may request that an autopsy be limited to the
chest only.
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Will an autopsy delay
the funeral?
Autopsies are usually done during daytime hours within 24 hours of
death. They normally do not delay a funeral.
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When will the results
of an autopsy be known?
Within two to three days the initial findings of an autopsy are
usually available. The final report often takes two to three weeks
to complete depending upon the number and complexity of tests
ordered on the tissues. The appropriate doctor should review the
autopsy results with the family.
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Links
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URL:
www.familydoctor.org/handouts/149.html
The American Academy of Family Physicians provides a Q&A about
autopsies.
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