Preservation of a Deceased Body in a Mortuary Fridge: Understanding Time Limits and Factors

When it comes to the preservation of a deceased body in a mortuary fridge, the question of how long a person can be kept without deteriorating is often asked. This article explores the factors affecting this process and what the practical limits are.

Can a Body Be Kept Frozen Indefinitely?

Contrary to popular belief, a deceased body can indeed be maintained in a mortuary fridge for extended periods, especially when properly refrigerated. The duration largely depends on whether the body is frozen or refrigerated, and the specific circumstances surrounding the preservation process.

Refrigerated vs. Frozen

Refrigeration slows down the decomposition process but doesn't stop it entirely. A body kept in a refrigerated mortuary fridge (approximately 40°F to 35°F) can remain presentable for around 15 to 30 days. However, if the body is frozen, it can last indefinitely, albeit with some dehydration occurring over a very long period.

Factors Influencing Long-Term Preservation

Various factors play a critical role in how long a deceased body can be kept in a mortuary fridge without deteriorating. These include:

Definition of “Deteriorate”

The term “deteriorate” can be subjective. Depending on the criteria used, a body might be considered intact and preserved for a significant period. The body can last for decades in a freezer, with extreme cases such as the Iceman (Toll wood) being found in natural ice and dated back to 5300 years.

Temperature and Cooling Speed

The temperature of the fridge and the speed at which the body is chilled play significant roles. A body quickly cooled to a temperature between 40°F and 35°F can last for 15 to 30 days, but this period can extend to around 90 days if the body is not planned for consumption.

Room Temperature Exposure

How long the body was exposed to room temperature before reaching the fridge affects the preservation time. Exposure to room temperature can accelerate the decomposition process, reducing the overall time the body can be kept in good condition.

Partial or Full Autopsy

The extent of the autopsy is another crucial factor. If an autopsy has been performed, the parts of the body most susceptible to deterioration (such as the gut) are removed, which significantly retards decomposition. However, even in cases where no autopsy is performed, the presence of bacteria in the gut can still lead to significant deterioration.

Practical Application: Releasing a Body

In practice, mortuaries often hold deceased bodies for extended periods, especially when awaiting next-of-kin notification or identification. The release of the body can take months or even years. For instance, a "residential" victim may be held for over 3 years before being identified and released. Proper preservation techniques, including full autopsies, dental records, and DNA sampling, enable the accurate identification and subsequent release of the body.

Legal Considerations

Legal measures also affect how long a body can be kept in a mortuary fridge. In most jurisdictions, if a body is unclaimed, the local sheriff's office is responsible for arranging a low-cost cremation. However, when a body is unidentified, cremation is illegal due to the need for potential future testing and identification. This requirement, although no longer strictly necessary with DNA technology, remains a legal mandate.

National Databases and Identification Efforts

For unidentified bodies, identification efforts like listing them in national databases such as NamUs are essential. These databases help match unidentified bodies with missing persons, providing closure to families. Detailed medical exams, including full dental charting, x-rays, CT scans, and DNA samples, are conducted to gather all necessary information.

Conclusion

Understanding the limits and factors affecting the preservation of a deceased body in a mortuary fridge provides valuable insight into the practical and legal aspects of handling such cases. Proper refrigeration, temperature control, and forensic measures are essential in ensuring the longest possible time for preservation while accommodating legal and ethical considerations.