Indications for Autopsy

General: Cases selected for autopsy can include but not limited to:

Deaths in which due cause is unknown or unanticipated
Deaths in which there are significant questions concerning effectiveness of therapy/extent of disease
Deaths in which the family expresses concerns or requires reassurance
Deaths when genetic diseases are suspected but not confirmed prior to death
Deaths which have occurred during diagnostic/therapeutic procedures
Sudden, unexpected or unexplained deaths in the hospital which are apparently natural and not subject to a forensic medical jurisdiction.
Deaths of patients with medical condition on course that is of educational interest or value

Special Indications:

Unexpected or unexplained death occurring during or following any dental, medical or surgical diagnostic or therapeutic procedure. Review by the Coroner's office may be indicated
Natural deaths that are ordinarily subject to a forensic jurisdiction, such as the following:
- Persons dead on arrival at the hospital
- Deaths occurring in the hospital within 24 hours after admission
- Deaths in which the patient sustained or apparently sustained an injury while hospitalized
Deaths resulting from high risk infections and contagious diseases
Outside facilities with special contract for autopsy coverage