LUCKNOW, June 26 -- Preparations are underway to introduce non-invasive autopsies, also known as virtual post-mortems, at the post-mortem house of King George's Medical University (KGMU), offering a modern alternative to conventional autopsies that require surgical incisions. Officials said the initiative is expected to gain momentum once a dedicated CT scan and MRI machine is installed at the facility. The advanced imaging technology will enable forensic experts to determine the cause and approximate time of death without dissecting the body. "KGMU has sent a proposal to the state government seeking approval to start non-invasive autopsies in road accident cases," said KGMU spokesperson Prof KK Singh. He said the government has approved Rs.8 crore for the procurement of a 128-slice CT scan machine with a Digital Radiography (DR) system. An X-ray machine has already been installed at the postmortem centre, along with a motorised autopsy table. "After receiving final approval, an MRI machine will also be installed. The facility will become operational once all required equipment are in place," Prof Singh added. At present, post-mortems are conducted in cases involving road accidents and other medico-legal deaths. Officials said a virtual autopsy can be completed in nearly 30 minutes, significantly reducing the time required for examination. Bodies will be examined using CT scans, MRI and digital X-ray technology. The imaging techniques will help forensic specialists identify internal injuries, fractures, foreign objects and other evidence relevant to determining the cause of death. "Virtual autopsies can provide detailed information without making surgical incisions," said a senior official associated with the project. According to officials, in many cases, kin express reservations about conventional autopsies because the procedure involves opening the body. Officials believe virtual autopsies will address such concerns. Officials said forensic medicine specialists will play a key role in conducting and interpreting virtual autopsies....