1. An autopsy (also referred to as post-mortem examination, obduction, necropsy, or autopsia cadaverum) is a surgical procedure that consists of a thorough examination of a corpse by dissection to determine the cause, mode, and manner of death; or the exam may be performed to evaluate any disease or injury that may be present for research or educational purposes. The term necropsy is generally used for non-human animals. Autopsies are usually performed by a specialized medical doctor called a pathologist. Only a small portion of deaths require an autopsy to be performed, under certain circumstances. In most cases, a medical examiner or coroner can determine the cause of death. == Purposes of performance == Autopsies are performed for either legal or medical purposes. Autopsies can be performed when any of the following information is desired: Manner of death must be determined Determine if death was natural or unnatural Injury source and extent on the corpse Post mortem interval Determining... from wikipedia.org