The images in this installation have been created with among others Dual Energy Computed Tomography. They have been post processed by using different tools of image analysis and visualization.

The technique used in this table is already utilized suc­cessfully as a compliment to the conventional autopsy. Apart from avoiding cutting in the body the doctors can see things that are difficult to discover in a conventional autopsy. Furthermore, the technique opens up for new op­portunities in countries where autopsies are not accepted due to cultural reasons. The technique can also revolution­ize the traditional health care in many areas.

The Virtual Autopsy Table can also, for educational purposes, be used in public institutions such as museums, Science and Technology centers. For requests and information please contact: thomas.rydell@tii.se.

The data set shows a full-body examination of a traffic accident victim. The examination gives the viewer a good and quick understanding of the 3D post-mortem anatomy and a possible cause of death, in this case a broken neck. Notable fractures: On the right middle foot, left tibia and fibula, right knee and left femoral shaft, fractured jaw and a broken vertebra.



Scanning technique:   Computed Tomography


Physical size:              384 x 384 x 1699 mm


Sample resolution:      512 x 512 x 3397


A living patient was treated for cerebral hemorrhaging. X-rays sent through the body during computed tomography grow weaker according to the density of the tissue through which they pass. By assigning density values with varying degrees of transparency and identifying colors, a sort of palette can be created by the computer to use in the imaging process. It becomes possible, for example, to remove clothing, skin or blood vessels. In this case the patient has been operated for a ruptured aneurysm in a small brain vessel. A metal clips has been added that can be seen in the image.


The Visualization program is funded by: The Knowledge Foundation, the Vårdal Foundation, VINNOVA, Swedish Foundation for Strategic Research, and Invest in Sweden Agency. 

Installation concept: Interactive Institute

Project management: Thomas Rydell - Interactive Institute

Volume rendering: Dr. Patric Ljung, Prof. Anders Ynnerman, Prof. Anders Persson and Willem Frishert – CMIV/VITA

Scanning, data and medical expertise: Prof. Anders Persson - CMIV

User interface: David Karlsson - Interactive Institute and Willem Frishert - VITA
Video production: Claes Ericson - Interactive Institute