The Truth Behind Morticians and Your Organs During Funeral Preparation

Many people mistakenly believe that morticians remove organs from the body during the funeral preparation process. This article aims to clear up the confusion surrounding this misconception and provide accurate information. Additionally, we will explore what actually happens to the organs, the role of autopsies, and the subsequent handling of the body post-funeral.

Understanding the Funeral Preparation Process

When a body is prepared for a funeral, the primary goal is to ensure that it is presentable and to preserve it. Embalming is a crucial step in this process, but it is important to understand the specifics. Morticians do not remove organs during regular embalming for funerals.

What Morticians Do During Embalming

Morticians use a long, fat needle-like device called a trocar to inject embalming fluid into the body's internal cavities and organs. This process involves:

Removing remaining fluids and blood from the organs. Injecting embalming fluid to preserve the body. Restoring the body's natural appearance.

This fluid, which may contain formaldehyde, works to slow down the decay process, making the body suitable for viewing and burial or cremation.

The Role of Autopsies

Autopsies are performed for various reasons, including determining the cause of death. During an autopsy, organs may be removed and examined. However, these organs are not removed during regular funeral preparations.

What Happens to Organs During and After Autopsy

If an autopsy is performed:

Organs may be removed and examined. After examination and necessary studies, the organs are typically placed in a plastic bag. These organs are then returned to the abdomen and the body is sewn back up. The process is similar to a normal funeral preparation where organs remain in place.

Organ Materials and Decomposition

It is essential to understand how the body decomposes. Ten years or less, the body will turn into a skeleton, a process that occurs regardless of whether organs were removed or not. Factors like humidity, rain, acidic soil, and soil moisture can accelerate this decomposition process.

Factors Contributing to Decomposition

Humidity: Higher humidity levels can speed up the decomposition process. Rain and Moisture: Excess moisture can cause the body to decompose rapidly. Acidic Soil: High acidity in the soil can accelerate decomposition.

While caskets may provide temporary protection against external moisture, they are not airtight. Over time, materials such as wood and metal will decompose, and grave liners are not waterproof. Concrete is porous, allowing water to pass through.

Options for Funeral Preparation

Funeral preparation is a personal decision, often made by the deceased's family. Morticians can perform various procedures, including embalming and storing organs internally. However, these procedures are not mandatory.

Non-Embalming Options

For families who prefer a less invasive process, options include:

No Embalming: A quick burial can be arranged to avoid viewing the decomposition process. Cremation: In the case of cremation, the body is generally left undisturbed until the process is complete.

It is crucial to discuss these options with the funeral home to ensure that the wishes of the deceased and the family are respected.

In conclusion, morticians do not remove organs during regular funeral preparations. Understanding the process can help alleviate concerns and ensure that the body is treated with the dignity it deserves throughout the funeral process.