Autopsy: Learning from the Dead (Cleveland Clinic Guides)

In the past several years, forensic pathology has been the focus of multiple television programs and bestselling novels and, in some respects, has become a glamorous profession. The reality is far different: In fact, autopsy has been the focus of considerable controversy since its inception. This book focuses on that reality and reveals just what we really do learn from the dead. Despite a recent decline in autopsy rates, its merits are actually considerable. In addition to determining the cause of death in criminal cases, it plays a role in establishing public trust in medicine, provides therapeutic value for surviving family members, and benefits the population as a whole by allowing for surveillance and detection of certain disease processes. Autopsy remains a mainstay of medical education, affording a unique opportunity to perform many types of research. This guide dispels myths and is an invaluable resource for families who are faced with decisions regarding autopsy.