WHAT HAPPENS TO NON VIABLE FETUSES IN FORENSIC PATHOLOGY

Here's something you did not know. Not every fetus that we receive in forensic pathology gets a death certificate. Not every viable. Every get a birth certificate. Let me explain to you how this works. Now, there are many ways that we use to determine the gestational age of a fetus. We use calculations, we can look at ageing, certain however, in cases like decomposition or where there is no indication of gestational age, we can use a weight. 1 kg is used in forensics for viability. Viability threshold: In forensic practice, a fetus that weighs 1 kilogram (1000 grams) or more is generally considered to have reached viability. What this means: A fetal weight of 1 kg or more is used as a practical guideline to support that the fetus had the potential to live outside the uterus. Important: Viability is assessed with consideration of the totality of circumstances, including gestational age, fetal development, and available medical care. Not just a number. It's about potential for life. 1 kg has internationally and in South Africa being clinically linked to viability. What forensic now viable fetuses after the autopsy, will not get a death certificate. However, put in a container, then or anatomical biohazard waste disposed in to our because to because discarding of a fetus is a criminal charge. Didn't now, please do you mortuary. Work.