Devices: Foreign Items Encountered During the Autopsy

Abstract

The autopsy may uncover a variety of lines, tubes, joints, and electronic paraphernalia within the head, torso, and limbs. These varied foreign bodies have symptomatic, reconstructive, and therapeutic functionality. Most are easy to recognize, but some may be a source of concern, particularly if the referral data do not indicate the presence of the device. Cardiac valves, pacemakers, and joint replacements are well recognised, but other devices with similar features may have different realities. This chapter shows a range of such devices and briefly explains their function.