Question 1

How do I complete the autopsy request form?

Accepted Answer

Please ask your physician as to how to complete the autopsy request form. This form is typically completed by a family member but the next-of-kin or legal designate must sign this for approval. A physician also must approve the autopsy request.

Question 2

Is it possible to request a medical autopsy with brain donation by telephone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it may be possible to authorize the autopsy and brain donation by phone. Please discuss this with medical staff.

Question 3

Where is the autopsy consent form sent?

Accepted Answer

The autopsy consent form can be kept with an individual’s medical chart. When transportation is being arranged to take the deceased individual to the morgue, a copy of the completed and signed autopsy consent form must be sent as well.

Question 4

Where can I get a copy of the brain tissue donation form?

Accepted Answer

There is no form specifically for brain tissue donation. If requesting a medical brain autopsy from the hospital, a donation to the MBTB can be made as well. Please add a handwritten statement to autopsy request forms indicating that a donation is to be made to the MBTB.

Question 5

Can I consent to my own autopsy and brain tissue donation?

Accepted Answer

No, once an individual passes, it is their next-of-kin or legal designate that has the legal authority to request the autopsy and authorize the brain tissue donation. Please ensure your family members are aware of your wish to have a brain autopsy with donation to research.

Question 6

How soon after death does an autopsy have to take place?

Accepted Answer

Ideally, an autopsy would take place as soon after death as reasonably possible. A longer postmortem interval (PMI) between death and the autopsy will start to affect the tissue. However, the MBTB does not reject donations based on PMI. Typically, the PMI ranges from 12-36 hours.

Question 7

What happens after the autopsy is completed?

Accepted Answer

Funeral arrangements can proceed following the autopsy. Morgue staff should be informed which funeral home should be contacted.

Question 8

Can an open casket funeral take place if a brain autopsy and donation takes place?

Accepted Answer

Yes, staff at the hospital make every effort to ensure incisions are minimally visible.

DONATION FAQs