examination of brain structures to detect damage areas assumed to be responsible for behavioral conditions that existed be for the person died

The process you're referring to is known as a neuropathological examination. Here are the steps involved:

1. Consent: Before the examination can take place, consent must be obtained from the next of kin or a legally authorized representative.

2. Collection of the Brain: After death, the brain is carefully removed from the skull during an autopsy. This must be done by a trained professional to avoid damaging the brain structures.

3. Fixation: The brain is then immersed in a fixative solution (usually formalin) for a period of time. This helps to preserve the tissue and makes it easier to examine.

4. Gross Examination: The external appearance of the brain is first examined. The size, weight, and symmetry of the brain are noted, and any visible abnormalities on the surface are documented.

5. Sectioning: The brain is then cut into sections. This is usually done in a systematic way to ensure all areas of the brain can be examined.

6. Microscopic Examination: The sections are then examined under a microscope. This allows for the identification of any microscopic changes in the brain tissue that may not be visible to the naked eye.

7. Diagnosis: Based on the findings from the gross and microscopic examinations, a diagnosis can be made about what damage was present in the brain and how this may have contributed to the behavioral conditions that existed before the person died.

8. Reporting: The findings are then documented in a neuropathology report. This report will include details about the methods used, the findings, and the conclusions drawn from the examination.

This process can provide valuable information about the relationship between brain damage and behavioral conditions. However, it's important to note that it can only provide a snapshot of the brain at the time of death and may not fully capture the complexities of the person's condition while they were alive.