Rigor Mortis and Its Management in Dental Autopsy Procedures
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46862/interdental.v22i1.12851Keywords:
Rigor mortis, Forensic Odontology, dental autopsi, post-mortem interval, time since deathAbstract
Introduction: Forensic Odontology plays a crucial role in forensic investigations, including determining the postmortem interval (PMI). Rigor mortis is one of the early signs of death, often presenting challenges during oral examinations. Dental autopsy is a procedure that can address these challenges, enabling a thorough examination of the teeth even in the presence of rigor mortis.
Review: Rigor mortis represents a major obstacle in dental autopsy procedures. Muscle stiffness hampers mouth opening and access to the oral cavity. Various techniques can be employed to perform dental autopsies in cases of rigor mortis, such as the use of mouth gags, trismus screws, and myotomy. Jaw resection techniques may also be employed to provide better access to dental structures.
Conclusion: Rigor mortis significantly limits oral cavity access during dental autopsy procedures. Characterized by muscle stiffness, presenting a challenge during dental autopsy examination of the oral cavity.
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