Post-mortem analysis of gunshot wounds to the head and thorax in dogs by computed tomography, radiography and forensic necropsy

Abstract

In view of the scarcity of literature data on the use of radiological imaging techniques in forensic veterinary medicine, while at the same time the number of reported crimes against animals involving the use of firearms is rising, this paper attempts to assess the usefulness of radiography and computed tomography (CT) in the post-mortem diagnosis of gunshot wounds (GSW) in comparison to classic necropsy. The design of the experiment was as follows: preparation of the research material (13 dog carcasses), shooting of the material from different distances (1.5 and 12 m, plus one contact shot to the head) and using different types of ammunition, followed by X-rays and CT scans in each case to examine the injuries resulting from the shot. The final steps of the experiment were photographic documentation and autopsy by the Virchow method. In the examined material, post-traumatic bone lesions and the presence of metallic foreign bodies were successfully imaged by both radiography and CT. GSW analysis using CT provided much better data quality and some additional information. Two general conclusions can be drawn from the results of the experiment. First, damage caused by gunshots is correlated with the calibre, initial velocity and kinetic energy of the projectile, as well as the distance from the muzzle of the gun to the object shot. Second, radiological examination is useful in preparing forensic veterinary opinions. Used as a complement to classic necropsy, they increase the possibility of an accurate post-mortem diagnosis of shooting victims.