The
stages of growth and development in bones and teeth provide information about whether the remains represent a
child or adult.
The shape of pelvic bones provides the best evidence for the sex of the person.
Abnormal changes in the shape, size and density of bones can indicate disease or trauma.
Bones marked by perimortem injuries, such as unhealed fractures, bullet holes, or cuts, can reveal cause of death.
The bones are typically photographed and
X-rayed. Some remains may undergo CT scanning or be examined with high-powered microscopes.
These techniques provide detailed information about remains without altering them while providing a visual record.