NCJ Number
133628
Journal
Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 36 Issue: 6 Dated: (November 1991) Pages: 1765-1772
Date Published
1991
Length
8 pages
Annotation
The value of the radiographic frontal sinus outline, which is unique to each individual and remains constant throughout that individual's lifetime, for identification purposes is discussed.
Abstract
Identification of human remains through comparing antemortem and postmortem dental records is a well-documented, accepted, and widely used procedure. Less well-known is the fact that the outline of the frontal sinuses seen in dental X-rays can be used to identify individuals even if they are edentulous. A series of cases is presented in which the identification of human remains was accomplished by comparing frontal sinus outlines found in dental or skull X-rays. The authors emphasize that antemortem radiographs of the head are an important and often overlooked source of antemortem records which can frequently provide objective data useful for comparison. 8 references and 6 figures (Author abstract modified)