Journal Published Online: 01 September 2002
Volume 47, Issue 5

Identification of Human Skeletal Remains by Comparison of Bony Details of the Cranium Using Computerized Tomographic (CT) Scans

CODEN: JFSCAS

Abstract

A case is described where a cranium from an unknown individual is identified by comparison of antemortem and postmortem com-puterized tomographic (CT) images of the bony structure of the skull. While on at least one occasion CT scans of individual cranial landmarks have been used to identify unknown remains, this study is remarkable because positive identification of a deceased individual was accomplished by per-forming a CT scan on an unidentified cranium and comparing multiple landmarks and images with corresponding features in an antemortem CT scan of a missing man. Bony details of the frontal and sphenoid sinuses, ethmoid and mastoid air cells, sagittal cranial suture, and the torcula (the internal occipital protuberance) were exactly the same on both CT scans, confirming them as the same person.

Author Information

Smith, DR
Teller County, CO
Limbird, KG
Penrad Imaging, Colorado Springs, CO
Hoffman, JM
Colorado College, Colorado Springs, CO
Pages: 3
Price: $25.00
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Details
Stock #: JFS15499J
ISSN: 0022-1198
DOI: 10.1520/JFS15499J