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Advanced Imaging Technologies in Archaeological Excavations and the Examination of Human Remains: Ethical and Legal Challenges

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Law, QaS.C., Islamic Azad University, Qaemshahr, Iran

2 Department of Anatomy, School of Medicine, Iranshahr University of Medical Sciences, Iranshahr, Iran

3 Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Research Institute for prevention of Non- Communicable Disease, Qazvin University of Medical Sciences, Qazvin, Iran

4 Non-Communicable Diseases Research Center, Department of Operating Room, School of Allied Health, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran

5 Assistant Professor, Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, Cellular and Molecular Research Center, Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences, Sabzevar, Iran

10.30468/jsums.2026.8423.3416

Abstract

Background and Objective: Ancient human remains are invaluable, non-renewable resources for reconstructing human biological, cultural, and social history. Non-invasive imaging techniques, including radiography, computed tomography (CT), and microCT, enable detailed anatomical and morphological assessment while preserving these irreplaceable materials. This study aimed to explore their utility in investigating ancient human remains while considering the legal and bioethical issues surrounding the imaging of human remains and historical objects.
Materials and Methods: This study was conducted as a narrative review. Relevant articles were collected and analyzed from Scopus, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Google Scholar, and SID databases using keywords related to human remains, cultural heritage, medical imaging, and legal issues.
Results: The findings demonstrated that non-invasive imaging methods reduce physical damage caused by sampling and excavation while enabling detailed evaluation of internal structures, pathological analysis of hard and soft tissues, and differentiation between antemortem injuries and postmortem alterations. CT scanning also plays a significant role in authenticity assessment, dating, and scientific restoration of historical artifacts without physical destruction.
Conclusion: Non-invasive imaging represents a scientific, ethical, and strategic approach for balancing knowledge production, preservation of cultural heritage, and respect for human dignity. Sustainable application of these technologies requires the development of coherent legal and ethical frameworks.

Keywords

Main Subjects

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Journal of Sabzevar University of Medical Sciences
Volume 33, Issue 4
September and October 2026
Pages 1199-1221
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History
  • Receive Date: 11 May 2026
  • Revise Date: 07 September 2026
  • Accept Date: 09 September 2026
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