[Virtual autopsy (virtopsy) in forensic science: from the scalpel to the scanner].

The aim of "virtopsy" is to utilize modern imaging technology to optimize classical autopsy documentation. The benefits of virtopsy include examiner-independent, objective 3D documentation and its non-invasive approach. Virtopsy is an option in cases where autopsy is rejected by family members or for religious reasons. It is also suitable as a rapid identification and examination tool in large-scale disasters. Forensic findings can be presented to prosecutors and courts in 3D and without bloody images.