Survey on the Construction Status of Forensic Virtual Autopsy Laboratory and the Applicability of Laboratory Accreditation

Abstract

ObjectiveTo survey the development status and actual needs of virtual autopsy technology in China and to clarify the applicability of forensic virtual autopsy laboratory accreditation.MethodsThe questionnaire was set up included three aspects： （1） the current status of virtual autopsy technology development; （2） the accreditation elements such as personnel, equipment, entrustment and acceptance, methods, environmental facilities; （3） the needs and suggestions of practicing institutions. A total of 130 forensic pathology institutions were surveyed by online participation through the Questionnaire Star platform.ResultsAmong the 130 institutions, 43.08% were familiar with the characteristics of virtual autopsy technology, 35.38% conducted or received training in virtual autopsy, and 70.77% have establishment needs （including maintenance）. Relevant elements were suitable for laboratory accreditation.ConclusionVirtual autopsy identification has gained social recognition. There is a demand for accreditation of forensic virtual autopsy laboratory. After the preliminary assessment, considering the characteristics and current situation of this technology, China National Accreditation Service for Conformity Assessment （CNAS） can first carry out the accreditation pilot of virtual autopsy project at large comprehensive forensic institutions with higher identification capability, and then CNAS can popularize the accreditation in a wide range when the conditions are suitable.

Keywords

• forensic pathology
• virtual autopsy
• laboratory accreditation
• questionnaire