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Where is the autopsy performed?
Answer is: We perform most of the autopsies at funerals homes. We have found that the person that gives the families the most information in handling and preparing the body for burial or cremation is the funeral home director. He is also the person you could ask about autopsy services. Most of the directors know the good quality of our services. We feel confident that they will gladly give information about us if you request it.
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If I order a private autopsy who would receive that information
Only a person who has the permission of the ordering party will receive information. The exception is the death certificate. It is a public legal document.
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Who signs the death certificate?
The certificate may be signed by the attending physician or the pathologist who performed the autopsy.A death certificate may be amended if the autopsy findings contrast with the initial death certificate
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How long does it take to complete an autopsy?
An autopsy report is composed of three parts 1. gross examination, 2. microscopic examination and 3. clinical/pathological evaluationThe actual performance of an autopsy takes an average of two hours. The preliminary finding may be available after the examination of the different organs is performed.
The microscopic examination is usually finished after four weeks
The clinical/pathological correlation will take several weeks depending on the complexity of the case, availability of medical records and special studies required.
An autopsy report is typically 8 to 10 pages long.
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How long does Autopsy Services keep the autopsy records?
Samples or organs or the organs with significant pathological findings will be kept in formalin at the laboratory for one year, unless the autopsy is a legal case. We will keep the samples or organs as requested by the attorney’s officeParaffin blocks, pathology report and microscopic slides are kept for 10 years.
Questions about our services
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Do you do studies for Alzheimer’s and or Parkinson’s diseases?
Yes. We also evaluate the central nervous system for other degenerative or tumoral pathology of the brain and spinal cord.
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Toxicology studies?
If relatives request toxicology studies, we routinely take samples of blood or vitreous fluid to be sent out to an outside laboratory.
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Asbestos and Mesothelioma?
We are familiar with the procurement, microscopic examination and report on malignant tumors suspected or diagnosed already as malignant mesotheliomas.
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Payment
If an autopsy is ordered, payment in advance is requested. We accept major credit cards.
