Managing transformational change: Implementing cross-sectional imaging into death investigation services in the United Kingdom

摘要

In general, healthcare is constantly re-building to provide better, quicker, more dependable services and care and, as a result, change is an inevitable part of our professional lives. The process of death investigation is no different. Traditionally the true' cause of death can only be determined by an invasive autopsy. Considered the 'gold standard' investigation, this highly specialised surgical procedure consists of a thorough examination of the corpse, evaluating the contribution of any natural disease or injury identified to the cause and manner of death. It involves the processes of external and internal examination, supplemented with laboratory investigations when required, followed by reconstruction of the body. However, a radical adjunct or alternative to the traditional autopsy has now been developed, challenging the concept of the 'gold standard', using the 'so-called' minimally invasive radiological autopsy.