A and B. A specimen resulting from a distal phalanx amputation of a digit of the upper extremity. The skin, soft tissue, nail, and bone margins are irregularly shaped, dark red to black, hemorrhagic, and consistent with traumatic amputation and necrosis.
Some specimens may become evidence in lawsuits. In such cases, it is useful to photograph a specimen to retain a permanent visual record. For non-tissue specimens (e.g., breast implants or bullets), it is preferable to not alter the specimen (e.g., by sterilization or cleaning) and to release it in the same condition as it was received. Traumatic amputations may involve litigation and the pathologic examination may become legal evidence.
