Body cavities should be opened in a manner that prevents:
- Loss of evidence.
- Contamination of findings.
- Artificial movement of blood, fluids or poisons.
The order of opening is chosen according to the suspected cause of death.
Why the Abdomen is Opened First in Suspected Poisoning
- To prevent contamination — poison in the stomach may regurgitate into the oesophagus and respiratory passages if the thorax is opened first.
- To preserve evidence — stomach and intestinal contents can be examined before any manipulation of organs.
- To prevent loss of volatile poisons — early examination helps preserve volatile substances.