Forensic anthropology & osteology.
Directed by Dr. Madeleine Hinkes, with Dr. Leah Auchter, Lead Pediatric Forensic Anthropologist. Every examination includes processing of the remains, decalcification, photography, and every analysis and histology slide the anthropologist considers necessary.
Medically reviewed by Evan W. Matshes, MD, FRCPC, D-ABP, Medical Director and Chief Forensic Pathologist · Updated
Two levels, chosen by you.
An inventory and description of the skeletal findings, or gross dissection with prepared slides, without interpretation.
Everything in the first level, plus the anthropologist’s interpretation: the biological profile, trauma and pathology, or the histology slides.
Start at the first level and upgrade within 30 days; you pay only the difference.
Forensic anthropology
- 01
Partial remains
Processing, inventory, photography and skeletal analysis of an incomplete skeleton or isolated elements.
- 02
Complete remains: standard
Processing, inventory, photography and full skeletal analysis.
- 03
Complete remains: complex
Full skeletal analysis with detailed trauma documentation and analysis, where criminal trauma is suspected.
Forensic osteology: specimens removed at autopsy
- 04
Throat: adult and pediatric
Gross dissection of the tongue, hyoid, larynx and proximal trachea, with histology.
- 05
Pediatric rib cage
Gross dissection of the rib cage and spine, with histology of every rib and fracture site as indicated.
- 06
Pediatric long bones
Gross dissection of each pair of long bones, including the metaphyses, with histology. Affected and contralateral bones are submitted together.
- 07
Skull fracture assessment
Resection and gross dissection of each fracture site, with histology.
Metabolic bone disease
- 08
Metabolic bone disease evaluation
Unfractured bone segments, including iliac crest or vertebral centrum: high-resolution radiography, paraffin and plastic-embedded (undecalcified) histology, and a written interpretation.
- 09
Vitamin D testing
25-hydroxyvitamin D, from blood submitted in a red-top tube.
- 10
Vitamin D with bone-fragility genetics
Vitamin D testing together with genetic testing for inherited bone fragility.
Our promises.
- One case fee. No separate charge for processing, decalcification, histology, photography or quality-control recuts.
- Report within 60 days of accession, guaranteed.
- Remains returned to the submitting agency when the case is complete.
- Storage and digital slides at no charge.
Fee schedules on request
We provide current fee schedules directly, so that you receive the one that governs your matter. Every service is quoted in writing before work begins.
Agency Services: the 2026–2027 guide
For sheriff-coroners, medical examiners and law enforcement. A complete printable guide to these services.
Start with a conversation.
Tell us who you are and, in general terms, what you need. The right member of our team will respond.
San Diego, CA 92121
Please don't email case records or images. The case request form collects what we need to open your matter; we'll arrange secure transfer of records after that.