ABSTRACT
This chapter describes the techniques employed to open the body cavities and remove the contents of the thorax, abdomen and pelvis. It deals with these techniques require modification in certain circumstances, for example when examining the muscles of the rectus sheath, and such modifications. Before opening the body the pathologist should consider whether samples are needed for toxicological or microbiological purposes that could be contaminated during the evisceration process. The evisceration is a vital aspect of the autopsy and should ideally be performed by the pathologist. Other techniques widely practised include a T-shaped incision that is also known as a ‘bucket handle’ incision and a single midline incision. The anterior approach starts with a Y-shaped incision to the skin of the neck, which is reflected back to the level of the jaw. The usual scalp incision is extended down along each side of the neck to the level of the shoulders and the skin reflected downwards.
