PMCTA
PMCTA stands for Postmortem Computed Tomography Angiography, a radiological technique used in forensic medicine to visualize the vascular system after death. It combines perfusion of contrast medium into the arterial system with CT imaging to produce three-dimensional views of vessels and blood distribution. In practice, arterial access is obtained—commonly via femoral or carotid routes—and iodinated contrast is injected under controlled pressure to simulate circulation. CT scanners acquire high-resolution images, and 3D reconstructions help investigators assess vessel patency, hemorrhage, traumatic vascular injuries, and bullet paths.
PMCTA is a component of the broader field of virtopsy or postmortem imaging and is used to
Limitations include the lack of true in vivo circulation after death, potential incomplete perfusion due to