Radiologia forense: comparação entre os métodos de raios-x e tomografia computadorizada em casos de homicídio por arma de fogo

Abstract

Technological advances in radiology have proven to be increasingly important not only in the clinical context but also in forensic practice. Computed tomography (CT) scan has been used due to its accuracy, image quality and short examination time to obtain post-mortem images in cases such as homicide. The technique has been shown to be superior to conventional radiology since the CT scanner has a multislice system that allows acquisition of images of the entire body in a few seconds with high quality and without overlapping structures. These equipments have special software for manipulating the image, such as 3D reconstructions, facilitating the exact location of the projectile. It is possible to make a complete description of secondary fractures, significant injuries, the projectile’s path triggered by the firearm and its relationship with the other anatomical structures. The article is a comparative study in the x-ray and computed tomography exams performed in a firearm homicide case conducted by professionals from the Belo Horizonte Legal Medical Institute (IML/BH).