Autopsies

The examination is carried out in two stages:

The macroscopic examination that includes a description of the body’s external appearance and the presence of any lesions and an internal examination of all the organs. Photographs are taken of the lesions. Tissue samples are also taken from all the organs and from any lesions. The macroscopic examination takes place in an autopsy room (HG - level -2) and requires the presence of a prosector and a junior pathologist possibly assisted by a senior pathologist.   

The microscopic examination during which the samples taken in the autopsy room are placed in a tissue cassette. The histological slides are examined by a senior pathologist who is head of the autopsy section.

A provisional report is issued within 48 hours following the macroscopic examination; the final report is issued within one month following the microscopic examination (except for brain examination). 

Meetings are held several times a year between clinical doctors and pathologists to study the correlations between the clinic and autopsy results, either in relation to anatomo-clinical sessions or USI seminars. 

Art. 133 01/01/1975

Excepting judicial requisition or provision, an autopsy can only be carried out if there has been no explicit or implicit opposition on the part of the patient or close relatives of the patient. 

Art. 135 01/01/1975

The usual rules on medical confidentiality apply for all observaions made on the occasion of an autopsy. 

Art. 134 01/01/1975

The doctor who carries out an autopsy shall act with tact and discretion. The doctor shall take the necessary measures to ensure that the body is presented, after the autopsy, in a manner that respects the feelings of loved ones.

These articles are taken from the Code of Deontology of the Order of Doctors and are accessible at the following address: http://www.ordomedic.be/fr/code/search/