Forensic Radiology
What is Forensic Radiology?
Forensic Radiology is a segment within the field of medical imaging that focuses on using radiology imaging techniques where evidence may be gathered in a court of law. The use of radiography in support of evidence has a long history dating back to the first few months after Wilhelm Roentgen's discovery in 1895. A bullet seen using an x-ray was used for cases of attempted murder. Pathologists commonly use radiographs when performing autopsies. The images can help them identify elements that are out of place or questionable and then allows them to further investigate. As the radiologic sciences have advanced over the years to include MRI's, CT's, and ultrasound, the accuracy has increased to a much greater degree and has made it even more relevant for investigating crimes and gathering evidence.
Application and Use of Forensic Radiology
In cases of murder or suspicion in the cause of death, radiology can be employed to determine the causes of death and also to determine the degree of detail required of an autopsy procedure. If a radiograph shows indications of substances or irregularities with anatomical structures within the body that point to foul play, a more detailed autopsy should be performed. In addition to the most severe scenarios, radiographs are often taken after someone is admitted to the hospital for car wrecks, assault cases, or any matter involving injury caused by someone or something that may be responsible for the damage. Often, these images taken after hospital admittance are used in a court of law perhaps to prove that some type of irreparable damage has occurred or to show the extent of the damage done. Another use for forensic radiology are child abuse cases. There have been many cases where a radiography has been used to determine whether acute or chronic injury has occurred.
Forensic Radiology has uses beyond issues of bodily harm as well. For example, radiographs are increasingly used to find drug trafficking activities. In cases where individuals have wrapped drugs and ingested or inserted drugs into their body, a radiograph can be used to detect the drugs. CT scans can very easily detect these types of activities and has helped law enforcement agencies in their screening efforts on several occasions. Forensic Radiology is also used in cases where victims have been found, but are beyond a state of normal identification. In these cases, radiology can be used in conjunction with dental and DNA analysis tools to identify the victim. Often, a premortem exam is compared to a post mortem exam and specific indicators of anatomical similarity are compared. Lastly, radiographs can be used during an autopsy to confirm certain genetic diseases that can help the surviving family with pathological suspicions they may have.
In addition, forensic radiology is used to examine certain donated body parts to ensure that they are safe to be used in medical procedures for those in need. If an organ, graft, or bone material is used, the radiograph can help medical professionals determine if the material is "diseased" or okay to use.
How To Get Started in Forensic Radiology
Forensic radiology is an emerging career option that combines education in criminal justice forensics with an education in radiologic sciences. Another path taken is that of forensics combined with anthropology. If you are an existing radiology professional and you have an interest in forensics, you will want to supplement your education with courses in criminal justice. There are many online options for criminal justice programs, but you will want to seek out programs that focus on forensics. By combining a knowledge of forensic sciences with radiology, you will have the skill and knowledge required to be an effective member of a forensics team. If you have a desire to fight crime and use medical imaging technology in the service of fighting crime, this could be a rewarding career option.
Radiology Programs:
Concorde
Campus Locations:
MemphisGet your career started with Concorde Career College. Our training programs are short, affordable, and hands-on. We offer training programs in medical assisting, dental assisting, insurance coding, respiratory therapy, surgical technology, vocational/practical nursing, patient care, and more.
Sanford-Brown College
Campus Locations:
FentonGet the skills you need in Tech, Business, or Healthcare in as little as 9 months from Sanford-Brown College. Choose from convenient day, evening, and weekend classes. Learn more today.
Programs offered:
Kaplan College - KHE
Campus Locations:
Las VegasDon't wait another day to take the next step forward in your career. Kaplan College can give you the real-world knowledge and skills you need to succeed in your chosen field.
Lincoln Technical Institute
Campus Locations:
Saint PetersburgLincoln Technical Institute provides career-focused, hands-on training programs with industry experienced instructors. Get the skills for a rewarding in-demand career.
For more student consumer information, please visit www.lincolnedu.com/lincolnconsumerinfo
Programs offered:
Keiser University Campus
Campus Locations:
Daytona BeachKeiser University offers accredited degree programs in today's high-demand careers: Healthcare, Technology, Paralegal, Business, Nursing and Legal Studies.
Programs offered:
Fortis Institute
Campus Locations:
WestervilleLooking to prepare for your dream career? Fortis Institute can give you the skills and training you need to succeed in the fast-growing and high-demand healthcare field. * Programs vary by location * Please contact each individual campus for accreditation information * Fortis Institute - Indianapolis advertising code is AC-0163.
Programs offered:
St. Joseph's College of Maine
Campus Locations:
StandishMany adult learners are enrolled in courses worldwide and are active in distance learning courses at Saint Joseph's College and are in enrolled in programs such as business, education, health care administration, general studies, nursing, and theology.
Programs offered:
Anthem College
Campus Locations:
AuroraGet the hands-on training you need to enter the exciting health care or criminal justice fields at Anthem College. Learn from our outstanding professional faculty in a hands-on, real-world environment. We offer financial aid for those who qualify, outstanding student services, placement assistance for graduates, and more.
Carrington College
Campus Locations:
SpokaneCarrington College has helped over 45,000 graduates realize their dream of a career in healthcare. Now it's your turn. Choose from eleven conveniently located campuses.
Programs offered:
MedVance Institute
Campus Locations:
Lake WorthAdvance your health care career with MedVance Institute. We offer programs in various areas of the health care field and students can graduate in as little as a year.
"For consumer information: http://www.medvanceedu.info/"
Programs offered:
Argosy University
Campus Locations:
Saint PaulAt Argosy University we prepare individuals for careers that make a difference, whether in business, education, or psychology. Learn how you can make a difference in your life, and the lives of others.
Programs offered:
California College San Diego
Campus Locations:
San MarcosCalifornia College San Diego (CCSD) offers degree programs in Medical Specialties, Respiratory Therapy, Healthcare Administration, Business Management and Accounting, Computer Technology and Networking, Computer Programming, and Computer Science. Online programs are offered by our affiliated college, Stevens-Henager College, Salt Lake City/Murray.
American Institute - Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Campus Locations:
CliftonAdvance your career with American Institute - Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Our program can be completed in as little as 16 months. We offer program specializations in general or cardiac sonography, both of which include vascular ultrasound training.
Programs offered:
Sanford-Brown Institute
Campus Locations:
HyattsvilleGet everything you need for the medical career you want. Sanford-Brown Institute's advanced programs allow you to complete your certificate or degree program in as little as 9 months. Learn more today.
Programs offered:
Brown Mackie College
Campus Locations:
MerrillvilleWork to meet your full potential with a career-focused education from The Brown Mackie College system of schools. Choose from a range of diploma, certificate, associate's and bachelor's degree programs in the fields of Accounting and Business, Healthcare, Legal Studies, and Technology. Small classes, flexible schedules, and plenty of personal attention.
Programs offered:
