Two forensic pathologists cover Drama, Kavala, İskeçe & Rhodope

The Forensic Service responsible for Drama, Kavala, İskeçe, and Rhodope currently operates with just two forensic pathologists, yet according to veteran forensic specialist Nikos Kifnidis, this number is sufficient to meet the region’s needs—unlike other parts of the country where understaffing causes serious delays.

Speaking to Thrakiki (“Θ”), Kifnidis explained the workload, clarified when autopsies are mandatory, and commented on the recent reorganization of Forensic Services announced by Justice Minister Giorgos Floridis.

250–300 Cases Per Year Require Forensic Examination

Kifnidis notes that:

“At the moment we are two forensic doctors working on a weekly rotation for Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, except for Alexandroupoli, where our colleague Mr. Pavlidis covers all of Meriç.”

The area under their responsibility—Drama, Kavala, İskeçe, and Rhodope—sees around 250–300 cases annually, a manageable number for two specialists.

When Is an Autopsy Required?

Kifnidis clarified a common misconception:
“Nekropsia–nektrotomi (external and internal post-mortem examination) is the same as a forensic examination.”

Nekropsia: External inspection of the body

Nektrotomi: Internal examination of chest, abdomen, and skull

Forensic examination: Applies to assaults, beatings, and all cases involving a deceased person

Autopsies are mandatory in all cases of:

Sudden death

Violent or suspicious death

Road accidents

Hangings

Suicides

They are not required when:

A patient dies in hospital with a clearly documented medical history

There is no suspicion of malpractice

However, autopsies may be requested by relatives if medical error is alleged.

Floridis’ Reforms Have Improved the System

Kifnidis praised the recent restructuring by Justice Minister Floridis:

“We are not facing the problems seen in Athens or Thessaloniki. We serve the region well, and most cases are examined the next day. With the reforms introduced by Mr. Floridis and the assistance of Secretary General Ms. Giavi, everything is now properly organized.”

He emphasized that autopsies are usually performed after 24 hours, so that post-mortem changes appear and cases of apparent death (necrophany) are avoided.

Why Wait 24 Hours? Understanding Necrophany

Kifnidis explained that in rare cases—such as diabetic coma—someone may appear dead without actually being deceased.

“We must wait 24 hours before conducting the autopsy, unless it’s a clear case like a fatal traffic accident with dismemberment. Only then do we proceed immediately.”

He stressed that proper verification is crucial before burial.