FAQs

Private Autopsy Services

What is an autopsy?

An autopsy is a medical examination of a body after death to provide answers about the the immediate and underlying causes of death. The autopsy procedure includes examination of the deceased person’s internal organs as well as laboratory testing of body fluids and tissues.

Why would I need a private autopsy?

A family may choose to have a private autopsy completed if they have unresolved questions surrounding the death of their loved one. A diagnosis of the cause of death of their loved one by a board certified pathologist help family members to find a degree of closure. Autopsy findings may also assist surviving family members with their health care. In some instances, evidence of a hereditary disease or chronic degenerative condition, that surviving family members may be unaware of, is found during the autopsy process. This disease or condition may require medical intervention.

Reasons for a private autopsy may vary, but some of the most common include:

  • Sudden or unexplained death (such as unexplained or unexpected death, occurring or following any medical, surgical or dental diagnostic procedure or therapy);

  •  Suspected COVID-19 death;

  • The local Medical Examiner’s office decides not to perform an autopsy following a loved one’s death, leaving the family with unanswered questions about the passing of their loved one;

  • Cases of possible nursing home negligence, medical malpractice, misdiagnosis, or wrongful death; 

  • Suspected or known exposure to carcinogens, toxic chemicals or material (e.g., inquiry regarding mesothelioma); and

  •  Death where there is a need to document inherited diseases such as colon cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer’s, etc.

Private autopsies can be done soon after a person has passed away (even if an autopsy has already been performed by a hospital or some other entity). 

How quickly should a private autopsy be performed after death?

The passage of time can affect autopsy results. Therefore an autopsy should be performed as soon as possible after death.

Will an open casket still be possible?

Yes, a private autopsy will not affect the possibility of an open casket funeral. The autopsy procedure will not leave visible signs that would affect a viewing.

Will a private autopsy delay funeral arrangements?

We work your funeral director to ensure any autopsy performed is not disruptive to funeral or cremation arrangements .   

Can an autopsy be performed if the body has been embalmed?

Yes. For best outcome, an autopsy should be performed on an unembalmed body. However, if there will be a long delay (beyond one week) between death and the autopsy, embalming may be recommended because embalming preserves the body tissues. Please note however that embalming may interfere with blood based studies. For more details, please consult with Dr. Rodic.

What is the difference between a partial and complete autopsy?

Doctor Rodic can provide a complete autopsy or limited autopsy (a/k/a “partial autopsy).

A complete autopsy is an examination of the entire external body, along with an internal examination of all the major organs of the body, such as the heart, lungs, liver, brain or kidneys.

A partial or limited autopsy is an examination of a specific area of the body or areas of the body the family requests. Examples of partial autopsies include e.g., a “lung only ” for asbestosis related mesothelioma and other lung cancers, or “brain only” for diagnosis of cases of dementia including Alzheimer's Disease, frontal temporal degeneration or other disorders.  The intrinsic problem of a partial autopsy is that frequently the organ examined may not be the one that cause the death.  With a complete autopsy the pathologist will examine and evaluate the organs that cause the disease and will report the sequence of events that result in the death of the patient.

If you are not certain if a partial or complete autopsy is the right choice, we can help guide you through the decision with expert knowledge and straightforward information.  To schedule an autopsy consultation with Dr. Rodic visit our scheduling page to set up a time that is convenient for you.

Is Dr. Rodic board certified?

Yes. Board certified pathologists are the most qualified experts for providing autopsy services. They are physicians who perform autopsies routinely and are specially trained to recognize the anatomic changes brought about by disease.

Where will the autopsy take place?

The procedure can take place at the funeral home you’ve selected to coordinate your loved one’s burial or cremation. The autopsy procedure and examination takes about 2-4 hours to complete, depending on the level of complexity and circumstances surrounding the deceased’s death.

How do I get started?

Visit https://www.epiarx.com/schedule to set up a call with Dr. Rodic at a time that is convenient for you.