Development of a radiographic technique for porcine head ballistic research

Introduction: The porcine model shows structural features comparable to that of humans and are routinely used within research, due to the ethical, legal, and practical use of post-mortem human samples. Methods for obtaining high quality and comparable reference data using standardised acquisition protocols are essential.

Methods: The decapitated heads of three adult white sows were subjected to radiographic imaging before and after cranial trauma (9 mm, Heckler and Koch MP5). Digital radiographs were generated using a Siemens MULTIX TOP system with an Agfa digital detector, with foam blocks and sandbags as ancillary equipment. An iterative approach was adopted by the authors to generate reproducible radiographic views from two perpendicular angles. Specimens were kept at 5 °C and wrapped in polythene bags to reduce the impact of putrefaction.

Results: Standardised head radiography technique was developed for superior-inferior and lateral views demonstrating porcine anatomy. Key parameters included: automatic exposure control for tube current (∼4 mAs), tube voltage of 73 kVp, 100 cm source to image receptor distance, and an anti-scatter grid. Slight variances in specimen morphology, developmental status, and soft tissue changes did not affect imaging outcomes.

Conclusion: The technique and positioning proposed in this study allows for the acquisition of high quality and reproducible radiographic images for comparable ballistic research datasets. Specimen positioning and centring of the primary beam may be applied across porcine breeds, although individual radiographic parameters may differ according to equipment specifications and specimen size.

Implications for practice: Development of a reproducible radiographic technique of porcine heads in forensic and veterinary research.