Role of forensic and medical sciences in the investigation prevention torture and other ill-treatment 2014, para. 42
Paragraph- Paragraph text
- In certain selected cases it can be necessary to conduct a computerized tomography (CT)-scan if there have been head concussions or other internal injuries. However, a thorough neurological examination can be sufficient and body CT-scans are only necessary in very severe cases and in connection with intensive care or with autopsies. CT-scanning is also available in most countries and not very costly. The only test that might not be available in some countries is electromyography (EMG), to diagnose neurological damage in the peripheral nervous system (e.g., paralysis secondary to trauma). The Special Rapporteur notes that this test is also not expensive, but it requires a neurologist or neurophysiologist to conduct and interpret the results. Properly trained personnel may be in short supply. Finally, bone scintigraphy (bone-scan), a modified X-ray test for the diagnosis of fractures that are invisible in traditional X-ray images, requires the injection of contrast in the wounded bone. This test is indicated almost exclusively in the case of the torture method known as "falanga" and is neither difficult to conduct nor expensive. However, the test seems to be unavailable in a number of countries. In cases of sexual abuse, DNA detection may be required. The diagnosis of electrical lesions is also possible and methods do exist.
- Legal status
- Non-negotiated soft law
- Body
- Special Rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment
- Document type
- Special Procedures' report
- Means of adoption
- N.A.
- Topic(s)
- Governance & Rule of Law
- Health
- Year
- 2014
- Paragraph type
- Other
- Paragraph number
- 42
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