The role of autopsies in medical audit: examples from a department of medicine.

Autopsy findings from a representative sample of deaths in a clinic provide an opportunity for regular and systematic revision of medical diagnostics and treatment. A standardized analysis of the collected results can furnish useful figures for comparisons and follow-up. On this basis, new strategies for future improvement of medical care should be outlined. Autopsy results can also be used for medical audit concerning more limited items like the certification of death.