Forensic radiology

Imaging techniques are a powerful tool in forensic science. Medical examine rs and forensic anthropologists are less versed in the finer points of radi ology than radiologists; nevertheless they are required to interpret findin gs from imaging studies to further medico-legal investigations. The forensi c investigator often should call upon the radiologist whose expertise might prove invaluable in forensic consultations. The radiologist should be awar e of the importance of storing radiographs over prolonged periods of time a nd of efficient record keeping methods, because various legal problems may require the radiographs for additional interpretation or for their presenta tion in court. Some of the main issues that might be encountered in forensi c radiology are discussed in this review.