The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia

DVI for Radiographers

A Mass Disaster is defined by the fact that local resources can’t cope with the number of injured and deceased people. Therefore, having a team of Forensic Radiographers (FRRT) trained to be deployed to assist with imaging of the deceased would prevent local Radiographers from being pressurised into providing a forensic imaging service. Forensic imaging is not a core competency of a graduate Radiographer. This is an opportunity to provide education and training for Radiographers interested in this area or who are currently involved in providing a forensic imaging service.

Aim of the Study Event

This training event will provide an opportunity for all radiographers to apply the principles of forensic practice and imaging learned in theory (Day 1) to a mock deployment DVI scenario (Day 2) using imaging equipment and the appropriate IAFR and Interpol paperwork.

How does Forensic Radiography contribute to DVI?

Forensic Radiography involves the application of imaging techniques to answer a question of law. It involves dental radiography, radiography or CT most commonly. Following the London Bombings in July 2007, the UK Forensic Radiography Response Team (UKFRRT) were deployed to assist in the National Emergency Mortuary. There were 3 radiography stations: fluoroscopy as part of the triage where body bags were scanned for undetonated explosives, sharp objects or personal belongings (e.g. keys, wallets, mobile phones). Dental radiography was undertaken which assisted in the identification process. General radiographic surveys were performed to assist with documentation of evidence.

Post-mortem CT scanning is becoming more common in DVI investigations. Victims of the Black Saturday Bush Fires underwent a CT scan and 2 children were identified based on this imaging. In the more recent DVI incident of MH17 , all victims underwent a CT scan so it is important that radiographers have an opportunity to learn about the forensic aspects of becoming involved in forensic imaging. CT was also used in the 2017 terrorist incidents in the UK.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of the DVI training, the forensic radiographer will:

• Have an understanding of the overall DVI process
• Appreciate the role of the Forensic Radiographer in the DVI process
• Be aware of the psychological aspects of forensic imaging
• Have undertaken forensic imaging including fluoroscopy, radiography, dental radiography and CT in a mock deployment scenario
• Have completed the associated IAFR and Interpol paperwork to ensure continuity of evidence
• Have identified commonly seen objects in the Image Interpretation workshop
• Have participated in the AM/PM reconciliation workshop
• Be able to make an informed decision if they would like to apply for membership of their local FRRT advising of their availability for deployment

Practical Training workshops

• Dental radiography techniques 
  • Radiographers will have the opportunity to observe use of portable dental x-ray equipment and practice dental radiography techniques.
• AM v’s PM Dental Image Comparison 
  • An opportunity to gain experience from an experienced Forensic Dentist in comparison techniques between ante-mortem and post-mortem data so the forensic radiographer appreciates what they are trying to achieve when replicating AM dental imaging. 
• Forensic Fluoroscopy techniques 
  • Radiographers will have the opportunity to practise screening a simulated body bag and locate artefacts interest under fluoroscopic control. This also involves the documentation of the screening process using the appropriate IAFR and Interpol forms.
• Forensic Radiography techniques
  • Radiographers will have an opportunity the use a mobile x-ray machine that could be available on deployment, as well as documenting the radiography process using the appropriate IAFR and Interpol forms. 
• PMCT 
  • An introduction to PMCT scanning performed for DVI purposes, including scan protocols and using the appropriate IAFR and Interpol forms.
• Pattern Recognition and Practical Problems 
  • An image viewing session on forensic image interpretation and advice on planning for their first deployment as a forensic radiographer.