Post-Mortem CT: How Radiology Is Rewriting the Autopsy

In this episode of Frame by Frame: Rethink Imaging, host Chris St John revisits Dr. Kalpana Kanal, a pioneering medical physicist, to highlight the cutting-edge use of CT imaging in forensic pathology from our previous episode with her. From minimizing invasive autopsies to enhancing medical education, this conversation uncovers how CT technology is reshaping the way we understand and investigate death. Whether you're in radiology, medical education, or forensic science, this episode provides eye-opening insights into the powerful intersection of imaging and post-mortem diagnostics.

In this episode of Frame by Frame: Rethink Imaging, host Chris St. John is joined by Dr. Kalpana Kanal, Diagnostic Medical Physics Trustee at the American Board of Radiology and professor at the University of Washington, to discuss how CT scanning is transforming the field of forensic pathology.

Dr. Kanal highlights her pioneering work developing a forensic CT program that can eliminate the need for traditional autopsies in nearly 50% of cases. From our first episode with her, she explains how CT imaging offers a non-invasive, culturally sensitive alternative to conventional post-mortem procedures—helping address the growing shortage of forensic pathologists while improving diagnostic accuracy.

Beyond her innovations in forensics, Dr. Kanal also highlights the unique imaging protocols and physiological considerations required in post-mortem scans, the global trends in forensic CT adoption, and the collaborative work between radiologists and forensic pathologists.

This episode is a must-listen for medical imaging professionals, pathologists, and educators interested in how imaging continues to push the boundaries of medicine, investigation, and care for the deceased.