Abstract: Objective To explore the application value of postmortem multi-slice spiral computed tomo- graphy （MSCT） by observing and analyzing the injury features in the traffic accident victims. Methods Ten traffic accident victims were scanned with whole body MSCT. The systemic autopsy was subsequently performed to compare with the results of MSCT. The advantages and disadvantages of autopsy and MSCT for obtaining the information of traffic accident injuries were then analyzed. Results MSCT could reveal 3D shape of fractures clearly and detect air accumulation in different positions of the body, which showed the obvious advantages compared with autopsy. However, the resolution of MSCT was limited compared to the detection of organ and soft tissue injuries. Conclusion A combination of MSCT and autopsy is the best way for determining the manner and the cause of death in traffic fatality victims.

Key words: forensic pathology, accidents, traffic, tomography, spiral computed, autopsy