MEDICAL STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS AND KNOWLEDGE OF MEDICO-LEGAL AUTOPSIES IN PAKISTAN: A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY

Abstract

Background: Medico-legal autopsies are crucial for determining causes of unnatural deaths and play a significant role in medical education. This study aims to assess fourth-year medical students' knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards ML autopsies at Ameer-ud-Din Medical College, Lahore.

Material & Method: In December 2023, a cross-sectional study involving 91 fourth-year medical students was conducted. Data was collected using an online questionnaire covering various aspects of autopsy practice, including knowledge, attitudes, and educational impact. Participation was voluntary, and responses were anonymised.

Results: Among 91 participants, 48 (52.7%) were males, and 43 (47.3%) were females. Most students (82.4%) were aware that ML autopsies are mandatory in cases of suspicious deaths. Despite recognising their educational value, 89.0% felt uncomfortable during their first postmortem examination. While 91.2% were unaware of the documentation for ML autopsies, 82.4% understood the procedures involved. A significant majority (96.7%) learned about autopsies from their curriculum, and 87.9% desired more observational opportunities. Notably, 94.5% preferred virtual autopsies over traditional methods.

Conclusion: The study highlights the educational importance of medico-legal autopsies despite associated discomfort and negative perceptions. There is a need to modernise autopsy tools and practices, enhance curricular exposure, and provide emotional support to students. Implementing these changes could improve the quality of autopsy reports and medical education, better preparing future physicians for forensic responsibilities.