Dismemberment: A Review of Forensic Pathology Issues

Background: Dismemberment is the deliberate removal of body parts after death, and it is very often associated with criminal activity (murder). It can be distinguished as localized or generalized, depending on whether one or a few pieces are separated from the body or multiple pieces are involved. In another classification, dismemberment is categorized into defensive, aggressive, offensive, and necromantic varieties, based on the psychological motivation of the perpetrator. A dismembered body poses a series of difficulties for the forensic pathologist because it is often difficult to establish the cause and time of death. There may also be significant identification issues. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of case reports published in the last 25 years, along with case series and other relevant publications in the literature with no time limit. Results: It has been observed that the most commonly used tools are knives, especially for disarticulation, even if transection is more frequently observed. For this modality, other tools, such as saws and axes, are more commonly used. Another observed feature is the symmetry of the severed body parts, even though this aspect is closely linked to the availability of a complete corpse. However, the issue of the perpetrator’s knowledge of anatomy, even in cases of disarticulation, remains debated. Conclusions: Cases involving dismemberment are highly complex, largely due to the frequent absence of body parts. Only a multidisciplinary approach can find the information needed to resolve, at least in part, the numerous challenges faced by the forensic pathologist.