Analysis of medico legal autopsies at Faisalabad

ABSTRACT

To collect and publish scientific information regarding different variables of MEDICO LEGAL autopsy to be used by health and law enforcement agencies for future planning. Data source Cases autopsied at the department of forensic medicine, Punjab medical college, Faisalabad. Non-interventional descriptive Setting Department of forensic medicine, Punjab medical college, Faisalabad. Period July 2001 to June 2002. Material and method: Study includes 236 cases of MEDICO LEGAL autopsy including both sexes. After legal formalities and examination of the clothes, a detailed external and internal examination of the dead body was conducted. Specimens were sent for further examinations where necessary. Findings were tabulated and analyzed. Majority of the victims [52.5%] was between the age of 20-39 years. Male cases outnumbered the female cases. Firearm was the most common causative agent in MEDICO LEGAL deaths. Homicide was the dominant manner of death. Maximum number of injuries was inflicted on the chest. A peak in MEDICO LEGAL deaths was noted in extreme summer. Homicide as a dominant manner in MEDICO LEGAL deaths and firearm being the commonest weapon of offence are eye openers. Strict legislation regarding holding of firearm weapons and justice without delay are the major steps which can help in improving the situation