A decomposição cadavérica e as dificuldades de gestão dos espaços funerários

Abstract

Understanding the process of decomposition is critical in forensic practice, particularly for estimating the post-mortem interval (PMI). The knowledge of this process is of paramount importance in cemetery management, particularly in cases of overcrowding of cemeteries. Applying the principles of Taphonomy to a sample of 35 burials (18 males and 17 females, all adults; PMI from 3 to 83 years) of two municipal cemeteries in Figueira da Foz, we analysed the following parameters: decomposition, skeletal preservation, PMI, type and composition of the grave, age-atdeath and sex of the individual. This study showed that there were variations in the course of the decomposition of the individuals analysed, of which 14 were preserved (two mummified and ten saponified). The decomposition is dependent on the PMI, but this relationship is variable and non-linear, making it impossible to predict the state of decomposition of the cadaver only based on the PMI in order to properly programme the necessary exhumations for the management of funerary spaces. It became apparent that the legal period of three years is insufficient for the rotation of the graves. It was also observed that the type of grave, clothing and the presence of diapers influenced the decomposition of corpses.