Exhumations procedures for investigating the genetic link in bones

Objective To identify technical problems in exhumations performed for DNA d etection in hones and to propose solutions through a protocol. Methods Prospective and qualitative study of exhumations was carried out ac cording to the methods proposed in the medical legal literature. From 1995 to 1998, were 10 exhumations to collect human remains for DNA extraction, O f them, seven cases were of civil interest and three of criminal. Alternati ves were sought to overcome technical difficulties found during the executi on of these procedures. Results For all cases, there was scarcity of useful information to identify the human remains. In half of them, identification was based on the indivi dual morphological characteristics, given by their relatives. Individual mo rphological characteristics contributed to identification in 50% of cases. In three cases. it was possible to determine only the sex, and in one of th em, only the age. Lack of infrastructure and police security in the cemeter ies impaired the examination. Conclusions To assure the reliability of the DNA molecular examination, it is necessary to identify the individual to whom the exhumed mortal remains belonged. To an efficacious investigation, it is paramount to have ci worki ng protocol that will cover, among other issues, those concerning identific ation, infrastructure and staff safety at the site of examination.