The handling of bariatric bodies
Date
2013
Authors
Eitzen, D.
Byard, R.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Journal of Clinical Forensic and Legal Medicine: an international journal of forensic and legal medicine, 2013; 20(1):57-59
Statement of Responsibility
David Eitzen, Roger W. Byard
Conference Name
Abstract
Increased body mass has occurred in many countries over the past two decades. Morbidly obese individuals are prone to higher rates of cardiovascular, endocrine and malignant disease requiring hospitalization and medical care. A review of problems encountered by ambulance services, hospitals, forensic facilities and funeral service reveals common problems in examination, transport and handling. Strategies used in one area of health to deal with bariatric cases can be adapted for use in other areas. Forensic facilities may require the use bigger body bags, reinforced trolleys and vehicles, with larger refrigerator bays and CT scanning machines. The best option is for purpose built mortuaries designed with lifting hoists and passages, doorways, machinery and autopsy tables that can cope with morbidly obese bodies. Unnecessary handling and lifting of these bodies should be minimized, and so the admissions area, cool room storage and dissection theatre should be in close proximity to each other.
School/Discipline
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Access Status
Rights
© 2012 Elsevier Ltd and Faculty of Forensic and Legal Medicine. All rights reserved.