SART (Sexual Assault Response Team) exams provide crucial forensic evidence following sexual assault incidents. In fact, the entire investigation can often hinge on these medical exams. The goal is to collect physical evidence, document injuries, and preserve potential DNA samples. It’s a technical process that can’t leave any room for error. In addition, there’s also the need to consider the patient’s wellbeing and minimize the risks of further trauma. The right resources can help unite all of these efforts. Rather than rely on outdated technology, it’s imperative that SART investigations have access to modern medical equipment.
The Difference with Colposcopy
Every form of evidence collected by a professional SANE (Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner) is instrumental in the pursuit of justice. But colposcopy is particularly critical. With this type of high-definition documentation, it can be much easier for expert witnesses to interpret the data and provide testimony to the court.
Our judicial system depends on having the most accurate evidence possible to corroborate victims’ accounts, identify perpetrators, and support the prosecution. As such, the physical examinations required for sensitive sexual assault cases need to be conducted with a careful attention to detail—as well as a high degree of efficiency.
Whether the exam is taking place at a SANE facility, OBGYN office, or a mobile clinic, it’s important to note that colposcopy is a medical procedure. More importantly, it’s a non-invasive procedure, which means it’s intentionally designed to avoid causing further harm or discomfort to the patient. Colposcopes aren’t reserved for forensic investigations. They’re beneficial for traditional physical examinations too.
Medical colposcopy allows for detailed visualization and documentation of findings in the genital area. In turn, the images and videos obtained through colposcopy during SART exams can provide an objective record of any physical evidence of injuries or trauma.
Securing More Accurate Evidence—More Efficiently
Modern colposcopes work to produce real-time, live images and video. Compared to static photography, not only is this more accurate, it’s also more objective. The ability to observe and document injuries in real-time reduces the risk of missing important details during the examination. Moreover, as true medical equipment, they also reduce the risk of contamination and can better ensure the integrity of the evidence collected. Why would any SART exam room be without one?
Regular camera photography can still be a valuable supplementary tool in SART exams. But it’s far better to integrate both approaches for evidence collection. With external photography, the documentation may be influenced by variable lighting conditions, awkward camera angles, and other factors that can impact accuracy; while colposcopes offer a more controlled and standardized examination environment.
Instead of capturing multiple photographs from various angles, the examiner can focus on real-time visualization and documentation. Not only do these video capabilities provide a more comprehensive visual record of the entire examination, they also offer additional context for supporting the credibility of the evidence.
Certain colposcope models also give examiners the option to apply high magnification and illumination for even more detailed evidence. This enhanced visualization can help detect subtle injuries and signs of trauma that might not be properly reflected through standard photography alone. All of the evidence needs to be available for review. We shouldn’t settle for anything less.
Progress Toward a Brighter Future
Colposcope images and video evidence are crucial in sensitive criminal cases and accusations of sexual assault for several reasons, none of which can be overstated. The difficult work of SART professionals helps bridge the gap between testimony and tangible evidence, and with the support of modern colposcope models, teams can have a more efficient, accurate examination process from start to finish.
Here at iRecord, we’re proud to partner with Lutech and integrate our solutions with their suite of reliable, modern colposcopes. Their technology allows medical examiners to record forensic evidence in HD video, and comes with a variety of user-friendly features to make the exam process, as well as the criminal investigation, more effective from start to finish. You can learn more about the benefits of working with Lutech colposcopes here.
In an ideal world, SART exams would never even be necessary. Yet with the support of new technology, we can help protect the innocent, increase the likelihood of conviction, and strive to offer justice to survivors and their loved ones.