Advancing the state-of-the-art for Virtual Autopsies--initial forensic workflow study

Area of Science:

• Forensic Pathology
• Medical Imaging
• Radiology

Background:

• Traditional clinical image processing differs from forensic postmortem examination needs.
• Imaging technology offers advantages for forensic examinations.
• Virtual Autopsy (VA) requires tailored approaches for forensic applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand how Virtual Autopsy workstations, datasets, and processes can support and improve conventional autopsies.
• To establish a foundation for collaborative procedures to enhance the value of Virtual Autopsy.
• To bridge the gap between forensic and radiologist perspectives in VA development.

Main Methods:

• Conducted an initial workflow study on post-mortem imaging.
• Analyzed current forensic Virtual Autopsy workflows.
• Gathered insights from forensic and radiology professionals.

Main Results:

• Identified key areas for adjusting VA workstations and processes for forensic use.
• Established a foundation for collaborative VA procedures.
• Highlighted the need for interdisciplinary input for VA technology improvement.

Conclusions:

• Workflow adjustments are crucial for effective forensic Virtual Autopsy.
• Mutual understanding between professionals enhances VA utility.
• Future VA development requires collaboration between forensic experts, radiologists, and informatics researchers.