Episodes
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This month, we present the following article:
Solomon N, Gascho D, Adolphi NL, Filograna L, Sanchez H, Gill JR, Elifritz J. The evolution of postmortem investigation: a historical perspective on autopsyโs decline and imagingโs role in its revival. Frontiers in Radiology. 2025;5:1565012. doi: 10.3389/fradi.2025.1565012.
This episode delves into the decline of traditional autopsy and the growing role of postmortem imaging (PMI) in forensic medicine. The authors trace the history of death investigation, highlight the diagnostic value of imaging tools like PMCT, and argue for integrated approaches to improve public health, preserve clinical accuracy, and support the overstretched forensic pathology workforce.
NB. Each episode is AI-generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest, and importance of the topic.
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To mark ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ฒ๐๐๐ซ ๐ of the #BeyondDeath podcast, weโre celebrating with a special compilation episode: ๐ ๐๐ฅ๐ฌ๐๐ก๐จ๐จ๐๐ฌ & ๐๐ข๐ฌ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐๐ฉ๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง๐ฌ ๐ข๐ง ๐ญ๐ก๐ ๐๐๐๐ญ๐ก ๐๐ง๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ซ๐ฒ.
Every guest this year has answered the same final question:
๐ โ๐๐ก๐๐ญ ๐ข๐ฌ ๐จ๐ง๐ ๐ฆ๐ข๐ฌ๐๐จ๐ง๐๐๐ฉ๐ญ๐ข๐จ๐ง ๐จ๐ซ ๐๐๐ฅ๐ฌ๐ ๐๐๐ฅ๐ข๐๐ ๐ฉ๐๐จ๐ฉ๐ฅ๐ ๐ก๐๐ฏ๐ ๐๐๐จ๐ฎ๐ญ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ฃ๐จ๐, ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ๐ซ ๐ข๐ง๐๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ซ๐ฒ, ๐จ๐ซ ๐ฒ๐จ๐ฎ ๐๐ฌ ๐ ๐ฉ๐๐ซ๐ฌ๐จ๐ง?โ ๐
Their answers have been thought-provoking, surprising, and sometimes funny โ offering a window into the misunderstood world of death investigation, care, and law.
Join us in celebrating a year of truth-telling, myth-busting, and elevating voices in the death care field.
Thank you to our hosts: David Annan Asanda K Lindsay Batty-Smith Dr Mark Viner and to the guests featuring in this special episode Dr Mark Viner Lindsay Batty-Smith Imogen Jones @Richard Byers J. Ciaran Hutchinson @Padma Rao Jelena Bekvalac Angie McLachlan MA, BA Hons, MBIE, Dip MoD @Alison Mutch Keiran Kelly Charlotte John Poppy Mardall Kerry Daynes @Rachel Duncan Natasha Davendralingam Julie Bramble FHEA MSc Amy-Lee Brookes Fabrice DEDOUIT
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Episodes manquant?
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In this episode of Beyond Death, Prof Susie Shelmerdine speaks with Dr. Natasha Davendralingham about the path to specialising in post-mortem imaging. Natasha shares her journey from medical student to expert radiologist, the challenges of training in this niche field, and the importance of hands-on experience. She also discusses the growing demand for post-mortem imaging, the need for structured education, and why this work is vital for both forensic investigations and bereaved families seeking answers.
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This month, we present the following article:
De-Giorgio F, Benedetti B, Mancino M, Sala E, Pascali VL. Post-Mortem Imaging Biobanks: Building Data for Reproducibility, Standardization, and AI Integration.European Journal of Radiology. 2025;185:112011. doi: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2025.112011.
The discussion explores the role of post-mortem imaging biobanks in forensic and clinical research, emphasising their potential for standardising imaging protocols, supporting AI-driven analysis, and improving the reproducibility of forensic investigations. The article highlights key challenges, including ethical considerations, data storage limitations, and the need for global collaboration in developing accessible and secure imaging databases.
NB. Each episode is AI-generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest, and importance of the topic.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, Dr. Natasha Davendralingham sits down with Professor Susie Shelmerdine, academic radiologist, AI thought leader, and co-founder of Anubix. Susie shares her journey into post-mortem imaging, how a personal experience shaped her career, and the creation of the worldโs first post-mortem imaging education platform. She also discusses the evolving role of AI in death care, the misconceptions around post-mortem imaging, and why open conversations about death are so important.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, Dr. Susie Shelmerdine sits down with Dr. Natasha Davendralingham, co-founder of Anubix and post-mortem radiologist, to discuss the journey of building a pioneering post-mortem imaging service.
Natasha shares her path from medicine to entrepreneurship, the challenges of launching a business in the death care sector, and the passion that drives her work. She also opens up about the misconceptions surrounding private-sector innovation in forensic imaging and the importance of supporting bereaved families through expert-led care.
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This month, we present the following article:
Loughnan SA, Wojcieszek AM, Singline L, et al. Post-Mortem Imaging to Investigate the Causes of Stillbirth in Australia: Views of Parents, Midwives and Obstetricians.
Journal of Medical Imaging and Radiation Oncology. 2025;0:1โ10. doi: 10.1111/1754-9485.13828.
The discussion explores the role of post-mortem imaging (PMI) in stillbirth investigations, examining the perspectives of parents, midwives, and obstetricians. Findings reveal that PMI is underutilised, with many healthcare providers unsure of its value compared to traditional autopsy. The study highlights the need for increased education and awareness to improve uptake and integration of PMI in perinatal death investigations.
NB. Each episode is AI-generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest, and importance of the topic.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Dr. Mark Viner and Lindsay Batty-Smith sit down with Rachel Duncan, a Metropolitan Police Coronerโs Officer, to explore the vital but often misunderstood role of coronerโs officers in death investigations.
Rachel shares her journey from forensic science student and special constable to her current role, where she supports bereaved families, gathers critical information for coroners, and helps navigate the complex inquest process. She also opens up about the emotional challenges of working with cases involving child deaths, suicide, and medical complexitiesโand how she finds strength through faith, community, and self-care. Join us for this insightful conversation that sheds light on the human side of forensic and death investigation work.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Kerry Daynes, one of the UKโs most trusted forensic psychologists. With a career spanning nearly three decades, Kerry has worked with everyone from serial killers to vulnerable individuals, delving into the human psyche and the systemic challenges of justice.
Kerry offers insights into her pioneering work, the importance of 'rational compassion,' and unforgettable cases that shaped her perspective. She also discusses her bestselling books, The Dark Side of the Mind and What Lies Buried, which reveal the human stories behind the headlines.
This episode explores the complexities of criminal behaviour, the shortcomings of the justice system, and the hope for a more compassionate approach to rehabilitation.
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Welcome to the February Journal Club!
This month, we present the following article:
Iles L. The utility of postmortem radiological imaging in forensic neuropathology practice. Pathology. 2024
Nov 14:S0031-3025(24)00293-9. doi: 10.1016/j.pathol.2024.10.005. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 39668072.
Available here: https://www.pathologyjournal.rcpa.edu.au/article/S0031-3025(24)00293-9/fulltext
The discussion focuses on the integration of PMCT in forensic neuropathology, highlighting its strengths in detecting medium-to-large hemorrhages, guiding examination planning, and its limitations in identifying smaller injuries or vascular conditions. Tune in to explore the synergy of radiological imaging with traditional forensic methods, offering a deeper understanding of its potential in modern medicolegal investigations.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay welcome Poppy Mardall, founder of Poppyโs Funerals, a trailblazer in the funeral industry. Poppy shares her journey from a career in art to creating a compassionate, human centred approach to end-of-life care. She discusses the challenges of transforming an outdated and unregulated sector, her mission to provide outstanding care for the living and the deceased, and her dedication to empowering families during one of lifeโs most vulnerable moments. This episode delves into the importance of honouring individuality in death, breaking taboos around grief, and creating meaningful choices for those left behind.
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As a first journal club discussion for the new year, we present the article:
Davendralingam N, Brookes AL, Shah MA, Shelmerdine SC.
Post-mortem CT service structures in non-suspicious death investigations.
BJR Open. 2024 Oct 29;6(1):tzae036. doi: 10.1093/bjro/tzae036.
Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11568351/
This article reviews various service structures for post-mortem CT (PMCT) scans used as a less invasive alternative to traditional autopsies. It explores different PMCT scanner typesโstatic, relocatable, and mobileโcomparing their costs, advantages, and logistical challenges. The authors also examine diverse service models, including pathologist-led, radiologist-led, and hybrid approaches, and various reporting structures (in-house, teleradiology, or a combination). Real-world examples from UK institutions illustrate the practical implementation of these models. Finally, the article highlights the importance of adapting PMCT services to local needs and resources.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Julie Bramble, a former crime scene investigator and current forensic educator. With extensive experience in crime scene investigation and embalming, Julie shares her journey from the mortuary to crime scenes and the classroom. She provides insights into the realities of forensic work, the emotional challenges professionals face, and the importance of coping strategies and open communication. Julie also discusses her passion for teaching and how her practical experience informs her approach to educating the next generation of forensic experts. This episode dives into the world of crime scene investigation, the value of real-world learning, and the human side of forensic science.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay speak with Amy-Lee Brookes, a dedicated radiographer specialising in forensic and post-mortem imaging. Amy discusses her transition from student radiographer to post-mortem CT lead and the challenges she faced building expertise in this niche field. She explores the future of forensic radiography, the importance of specialised training, and her passion for educating and inspiring the next generation of radiographers.
Amy also reflects on the role of digital transformation in forensic imaging and how technology is shaping the future of post-mortem investigations. This episode offers a thought-provoking discussion on the growing field of forensic radiography and its critical role in modern forensic science.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, hosts Mark and Lindsay interview Dr. Fabrice Dedouit, a pioneering forensic radiologist and pathologist from the University of Paul Sabatier in Toulouse, France. With over two decades of experience, Dr. Dedouit shares his journey in establishing forensic imaging in France and the evolution of post-mortem CT and MRI techniques. He discusses the challenges and breakthroughs in applying imaging technology to forensic cases, from terrorist attacks to historical and anthropological investigations. Dr. Dedouit also delves into the emotional complexities of forensic work and the importance of resilience and collaboration. This episode provides an in-depth look into the transformative role of imaging in forensic pathology and its impact on modern forensic investigations.
Join us for an enlightening conversation that highlights the complexities and rewards of working in forensic imaging. Don't forget to follow and rate our channel, and stay tuned for more intriguing discussions that go beyond death.
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In this episode of Beyond Death, David returns and interviews Dr. Ciaran Hutchinson, a consultant paediatric and perinatal pathologist at Great Ormond Street Hospital, London. With a PhD in minimally invasive autopsy, Dr. Hutchinson shares his unique experiences and insights into paediatric postmortem imaging and how this approach is reshaping parental consent and clinical practice. He discusses his research on micro-CT, minimally invasive autopsy techniques, and the role of pathology in providing closure and understanding for families experiencing loss. Dr. Hutchinson also reflects on the balance between clinical practice, academia, and innovation in paediatric pathology. This episode offers a deep dive into the evolving landscape of paediatric postmortem investigations and how new imaging techniques are transforming patient care and family experiences.
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In this episode, Dr. Susie Shelmerdine takes over the mic to interview a very special guest - Dr. Padma Rao, a fellow children's imaging expert (paediatric radiologist) from The Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia. Dr. Rao is the Medical Director at her institute, but also assists with reporting paediatric postmortem radiology with the Victorian Institute of Forensic Medicine (VIFM). She discusses how children's postmortem imaging is performed in Australia, when it is indicated, who pays for it and what sort of cases she sees commonly in her practice. She also gives some tips and suggestions for places to go for courses and education.
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As a first for our channel we are starting a monthly journal club to highlight cutting edge research work in the post-mortem / death investigation space, with a focus on imaging.
In this episode we present the article:
Beardmore S, Adeley J, Brookes A, Robinson C, Davendralingam N, Joseph J, McManoman B, Morgan B.
Impact of changing from autopsy to post-mortem CT in an entire HM Coroner region due to a shortage of available pathologists.
Clin Radiol. 2023 Nov;78(11):797-803. doi: 10.1016/j.crad.2023.08.001. Epub 2023 Oct 5.
This work won an editor's prize from the journal Clinical Radiology - the journal of the Royal College of Radiologists and demonstrates how post-mortem imaging is changing normal practice in the UK.
NB. Each episode is AI -generated using Google Notebook LM. The article(s) and sources are chosen by Drs. Susan Shelmerdine & Natasha Davendralingam based on quality of research, audience interest and importance of topic matter.
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In this episode, David speaks with Dr. Imogen Jones, an Associate Professor of Law from the University of Leeds, specialising in criminal law and medico-legal death investigations. Dr. Jones sheds light on the gaps between public perception and the reality of autopsies and medical death investigations, while also discussing the emotional labour involved in after-death care.
Her research into the hidden roles within the mortuary and her insights on digital transformation provide a fascinating look into how law, medicine, and technology converge.
If youโre curious about the legalities and ethical dimensions of death investigations, this episode is one you wonโt want to miss.
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Join us in this episode as David sits down with Charlotte John, an experienced healthcare professional with a fascinating journey from midwifery to Mortuary management and national audits with the Home Office. Charlotte shares her unique insights on working with end-of-life care, navigating grief, and the importance of after-death care. Her thoughts on digital transformation in the death space bring a fresh perspective on how we can improve healthcare for both the living and the deceased.
Donโt miss this captivating conversation about the vital, often hidden, work behind death care and how technology is shaping its future.
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