Cranio-facial reconstruction in forensic identification--historical development and a review of current practice

Cranio-facial reconstruction has its origins in the 19th century, initially to recreate and 'bring back to life' the faces of the rich and the famous. Since then, over the last 100 years, there have been various methods used to produce reconstructions for forensic identification as well as for historical or archaeological purposes. These range from the traditional sculpting methods to those based on up-to-date computer technology. When no other method of identification is available in skeletalized, badly mutilated or decomposing remains, forensic cranio-facial reconstruction may be employed to produce a face which it is hoped will trigger recognition and thus lead to a positive identification. This paper discusses the role that cranio-facial reconstruction may play in identification and its limitations.

Facial reconstruction using 3-D computer graphics

Facial reconstruction using 3-D computer graphics is being used in our institute as a routine procedure in forensic cases as well as for skulls of historical and archaeological interest. Skull and facial data from living subjects is acquired using an optical laser scanning system. For the production of the reconstructed image, we employ facial reconstruction software which is constructed using the TCL/Tk scripting language, the latter making use of the C3D system. The computer image may then be exported to enable the production of a solid model, employing, for example, stereolithography. The image can also be modified within an identikit system which allows the addition of facial features as appropriate.

Mediating factors in the grieving process of the suddenly bereaved

This article explores the role of the staff of accident and emergency (A&E) departments in managing events surrounding sudden death. Key aspects, such as the way in which initial contact with relatives is made, reception and resuscitation procedures, viewing of the deceased, and the bureaucratic elements of these events, are discussed in terms of the impact that they may have on the subsequent adjustment of the bereaved to the sudden death of their relative. The management of death may be problematic, particularly if it involves children or if the body of the dead person is mutilated. This article suggests ways to support health professionals in facilitating the processes of grieving, and raises awareness of the potential influence the experiences in the A&E department at the time of bereavement may have on the grieving process.

Morphological classification of facial features in adult Caucasian males based on an assessment of photographs of 50 subjects

Fifty sets of photographs showing facial features of Caucasian males aged 18 to 60 years were examined to establish a morphological classification of the face. It is suggested that such a classification could assist facial identification by photocomparison. The selection criteria stress the importance of interassessor agreement and discrimination among feature subset units in formulating the proposed classification.