Devices: Foreign Items Encountered During the Autopsy

The autopsy may uncover a variety of lines, tubes, joints and electronic paraphernalia within the head, torso and limbs. These foreign bodies may have symptomatic, reconstructive and therapeutic functionality. Most are easy to recognize, but some may be a source of concern, particularly if the referral data does not indicate the presence of the device. Cardiac valves, pacemakers and joint replacements are well recognised, but other devices with similar features may have different realities. This chapter shows a range of such devices and briefly explains their function.