Performing PME

Describe this post mortem finding

Multifocal accumulations of barbiturate crystals in right ventricle, due to euthanasia

What is checked in the external exam during PME?

Overview, BCS

Crown-rump length

Pelage and skin

Eyes

Feet

Faecal or urine staining

Blood

Mucous membranes

Dentition

First thing that should be checked when it comes to dissecting the thorax?

Check for negative pressure - lift up xyphoid and check for cranial doming of the diaphragm. Make a stab incision in both sides and check if the chest expands

What structures is the pluck composed of? (7)

Tongue

Thyroid glands

Traches

Oesophagus

Lungs

Heart

Thymus

Describe removal and assessment of the adrenal glands

Craniomedial to the kidneys

Left is easier to get than the right due to proximity of right gland to vena cava

Remove the fat and weight

Bisect both glands longitudinally and assess corticomedullary ratio. Should be 1:2 in dogs

What to check regarding the gall bladder in post mortem?

Check ducts are not blocked by squeezing gall bladder and seeing if duodenum expands/fills with bile

What should be included in the MSK exam during a post mortem?

Open and examine at least 7 limb joints

Remove and bisect a femur to assess bone marrow

Remove entire skin if suspected trauma or neglect