The following words and phrases when used in this chapter shall have the meanings given to them in this section unless the context clearly indicates otherwise: 'Autopsy.' The external and internal examination of the body of a deceased individual, including all of the following: (1) Gross visual inspection and dissection of the body and the body's internal organs. (2) Photographic or narrative documentation of findings, including microscopic, radiological, toxicological, chemical, magnetic resonance imaging or other laboratory analysis performed upon tissues, organs, blood, other bodily fluids, gases or other specimens. (3) The retention for diagnostic and documentary purposes of all of the following which are necessary to establish and defend against challenges to the cause and manner of death of the deceased individual: (i) Tissues, organs, blood, other bodily fluids or gases. (ii) Any other specimen. 'Coroner.' An elected or appointed coroner or an elected or appointed medical examiner. 'Staff.' The term includes an individual in the coroner's office who engages in activities relating to death investigation. n elected or appointed coroner or an elected or appointed medical examiner. 'Staff.' The term includes an individual in the coroner's office who engages in activities relating to death investigation. The term includes a medical investigator, forensic technician, laboratory director, forensic supervisor, forensic investigator, scientist or autopsy or histology technician.
Pennsylvania Legal Code