Glossary
Select a letter below to find the word you are looking for. The glossary terms are for use in context with the work of the HTA, and are taken from our codes of practice.
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Minimally invasive autopsies
Include those in which needle biopsies through the skin are taken to sample internal organs and tissues, and examinations that use an endoscope or laparoscope to provide internal access to the gastrointestinal tract and the abdominal cavity. Needle autopsies are undertaken for only the most limited of examinations, for example when the body poses a high risk of serious infection, or when there is neither the time nor conditions needed for a complete PM examination. Endoscopic PM examinations require specialist equipment and expertise. They have been used in cases in which consent for a more complete PM examination has not been obtained.
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Moratorium
The moratorium on the disposal of tissue relates to trusts which were holding post mortem human organs and tissue in accordance with restrictions on disposal imposed by the Secretary of State in February 2000. The moratorium has now been lifted.