Victim Identification In Mass Disaster Role Of A Forensic Odontologists - A Survey

Abstract

Introduction: Disaster Victim Identification (DVI) is the most intensive and challenging task which involves specialists from various fields. Well-trained key experts and relevant forensic diagnostic tools leads to successful identification. Human identification using dental antemortem and postmortem data is the most reliable and accurate method in Disaster Victim Identification because teeth can resist decomposition and it withstands even at high temperature without any alterations even in the microstructure.

Aim: The aim of the study is to assess Forensic odontology as a victim identification tool in mass disasters.

Materials and methods: Self administrated questionnaire was designed and distributed through an online survey planet link. The Study population included 100 college students belonging to the age group of 18 to 24 years. The participants were explained about the purpose of the study in detail. The questions were carefully studied and the corresponding answers were marked by the participants. The data were collected and statistically analysed using SPSS software. Descriptive analysis and chi square test was done.

Results: From the obtained data it was concluded that  both undergraduate and postgraduate dental students are aware about the Disaster Victim Identification. 72% of the population reported  that dental comparison is the best method for the identification of victims. Most of them were aware about the recent technologies and evaluation of digital technologies used in disaster identification. p<0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

Conclusion: Dental evaluation and examination is the most powerful tool in the identification of the deceased. Preparedness is the main key for successful mass disaster identification. Identifying an unknown individual whether living or dead is of paramount importance to our society.