FAQ About Our Post-Mortem Examination Services in Tampa, FL
Learn more about our post-mortem examination services in Tampa, FL. Our detailed FAQ list is here to guide you through the autopsy process, enhance your understanding of the various reports, and provide insights into confidentiality and service details. If you have further questions not addressed here, please feel free to contact us for personalized assistance.
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Where are autopsies performed?
Most autopsies are conducted at local funeral homes.
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Who receives information from a private autopsy?
Information related to a private autopsy is shared only with individuals who have received permission from the ordering party. The only exception is the death certificate, which is a public legal document accessible to others.
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Who signs the death certificate?
The death certificate can be signed by either the attending physician or the pathologist who conducted the autopsy. If the autopsy findings differ from those on the initial death certificate, it may be amended accordingly.
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How long does it take to complete an autopsy?
An autopsy report consists of three main components: a gross examination, a microscopic examination, and a clinical/pathological evaluation. The actual autopsy procedure typically takes about two hours, with preliminary findings often available shortly after the examination. The microscopic examination usually requires around four weeks to complete, and the clinical/pathological correlation may take several weeks, depending on the complexity of the case and the medical records needed. Overall, an autopsy report generally spans 8 to 10 pages.
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How long are autopsy records retained?
Samples or organs, especially those with significant pathological findings, are preserved in formalin for one year, unless classified as a legal case. In such instances, samples will be retained as directed by the attorney’s office.Paraffin blocks, pathology reports, and microscopic slides are retained for a period of 10 years.
Questions about our services
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Do you conduct studies for Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s diseases?
Yes, we conduct evaluations of the central nervous system for various degenerative or tumoral pathologies, including Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. This falls under our neuropathology autopsy services.
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Can families request toxicology studies during the autopsy?
Yes, relatives may request toxicology studies. We routinely collect blood or vitreous fluid samples for analysis in our toxicology and cultures report, which are sent to an external laboratory.
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Do you provide mesothelioma autopsy services related to asbestos exposure?
Yes, our team is experienced in procuring, analyzing, and reporting on malignant tumors suspected to be mesotheliomas, ensuring thorough examination and reporting.
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Do you provide exhumation autopsy services?
Yes, we offer exhumation autopsy services, which allow for a thorough examination of remains when circumstances surrounding the death require further investigation.
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What payment options are available for autopsy services?
We accept all major credit cards for your convenience. For autopsy services, payment in advance is required.
