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Which parts of an organ are examined during an autopsy?
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autopsy
English physicians Charles Scarborough and Edward Arris performing an autopsy in 1651 (watercolour painted in 1818 by G.P. Harding from an original work in the Barber Surgeons' Hall, London).
During an autopsy, the examiner performs a comprehensive assessment of each organ to understand disease processes and determine the cause of death. The examination includes the following components for each organ:
- External and Cut Surfaces: The dissector inspects the outer appearance of the organ as well as its internal structure by making incisions to view the cut surface.1
- Vascular Structures: This includes a detailed examination of the arteries and associated blood vessels.1
- Supporting Tissues: The examiner evaluates the lymphatics, as well as any fascial or fibrous tissues surrounding or supporting the organ.1
- Nerves: The associated nerve structures are also examined.1
Beyond these specific parts, the procedure often involves removing groups of organs together to study their functional relationships. Additionally, the examiner may collect specimens from these structures for further chemical analysis, culture, or microscopic study to confirm diagnoses.1