End of Life Concerns Print Should I Request an Autopsy After a Death? Written by twitter Written by Chris Raymond Chris Raymond is an expert on funerals, grief, and end-of-life issues, as well as the former editor of the world’s most widely read magazine for funeral directors. Learn about our editorial policy Chris Raymond Updated on March 21, 2018 Darrin Klimek / Getty Images More in End of Life Concerns Assisted Living Hospice Care Palliative Care Pain & Symptom Control The Dying Process Funeral & Memorial Planning Grief & Bereavement An autopsy or post-mortem examination is a surgical procedure performed by a forensic pathologist to examine a deceased human body and its organs to determine the cause of death. If authorities consider a death suspicious, they will order an autopsy, but as of 2007, fewer than 9% of all deaths in the U.S. are autopsied. Reasons Why Requesting an Autopsy May Be Important Even in cases of natural death, however, the next-of-kin may still wish to request an autopsy for several reasons: To confirm a medical diagnosis made before the death involving a genetic disease that could affect surviving family members. While advancements have been made in accurately diagnosing Alzheimer’s, for example, a brain autopsy remains the only method of confirming the disease.If the death was unexpected — particularly if it occurred during a health-related procedure, such as surgery, giving birth, etc.When knowing the precise cause of death could impact legal matters, such as payment of an insurance policy.To further the study, understanding or treatment of a disease in order to possibly benefit others in the future. Before requesting an autopsy, the next-of-kin should thoroughly consider the possible ramifications, which might include: The effect of the post-mortem procedure on grieving survivors. An autopsy involves making incisions in the chest and/or skull of the deceased in order to inspect/remove organs, which some loved ones might find an unpleasant idea.Cultural or religious acceptance. For example, both Orthodox and Conservative Jewish law generally prohibit autopsies because of the belief in the inviolability of the body after death.Additional financial obligation. The cost of the autopsy might be charged to the family if not ordered by a medical examiner. Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. Sign Up You're in! Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. There was an error. Please try again. What are your concerns? Other Inaccurate Hard to Understand Submit Article Sources Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial policy to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. "Rates of autopsy." www.medscape.com. 2012. Medscape.com. Retrieved July 17, 2012. http://emedicine.medscape.com/article/1705948-overview#aw2aab6b3 "Should I have an autopsy done on my loved one?" www.webmd.com. 2008. WebMD.com. Retrieved July 17, 2012. http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/should-i-have-an-autopsy-done-on-my-loved-one Sources:"Autopsy." www.aurorahealthcare.org. 2010. Aurora Health Care. Retrieved July 17, 2012. http://www.aurorahealthcare.org/yourhealth/healthgate/getcontent.asp?URLhealthgate=14771.html Continue Reading