Dr Sibi Vijayakumar, a Junior resident pursuing MD course in the Department of Forensic Medicine and Toxicology at AIIMS Bhopal, has recently made a significant contribution to the field of forensic medicine.
His innovative approach, focusing on the meticulous removal of the Circle of Willis during autopsies, has garnered significant recognition in the esteemed American Journal of Forensic Medicine and Pathology, a PubMed indexed journal, where the article has been accepted for publication. Dr. Sibi credited his success to the motivation he received from Executive Director of AIIMS, Bhopal Prof. (Dr.) Ajai Singh.
The 'Circle of Willis' is a circular arrangement of arteries at the base of the brain which ensures blood supply to all parts of the brain.
These arteries have thinner walls compared to same sized arteries elsewhere in the body. However they have stronger fibrous content making them less prone to breaking. The walls of these arteries get thickened or blocked by atherosclerotic changes like the arteries of the heart.
These arteries may also have relatively thin-walled, dilated areas called 'aneurysms' which may burst leading to death of the person.
The brain and the 'Circle of Willis' are examined at autopsy. Thickening of arteries due to atherosclerosis, bursting of aneurysm and haemorrhage of brain are seen at autopsy. It can help to establish the cause of death whether it is due to injury or natural disease process. The method of dissection of Circle of Willis as suggested by Dr Sibi provides the Circle of Willis to be better seen, to be more certain of the findings and to have photographic evidence for the observation. Sample for microscopic examination of affected part can also be better obtained.
When death of a person is sudden due to a condition or disease like stroke, the person is likely to fall and sustain injuries. Whether the person died due to the injuries or the disease and establishing the sequence of events can be done by autopsy and meticulous dissection. It can help to find the cause of death and this can be understood and accepted better by family members and investigating agency.
Autopsy is a scientific and meaningful observation of the dead to know about the cause, manner and duration of death. It involves dissection for the internal examination of organs. When autopsy is done with precision and professionalism, it can unravel and reveal the true cause of death. The new technique of dissection and examination of 'Circle of Willis' by Dr Sibi speaks volumes on thoughtfulness, expertise and true understanding of concept of autopsy.
The dedication to refining autopsy technique is commendable as it addresses both, legal and humanitarian perspective.
