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Virtual patient

The virtual patient is a representation of a patient or case, which includes all the input data (such as original scans from intraoral scanners (IOS) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)) and any inferences derived from those, like treatments, guides, and other related data.

Overview of the Virtual Patient Concept​

The concept of a Virtual Patient refers to a digital, three-dimensional avatar that represents a real patient as accurately as possible by aggregating and processing all available clinical data—such as scans, images, and treatment records. This virtual model is displayed on a computer and is used to assist clinicians and learners in navigating clinical scenarios, planning treatments, and executing specific tasks.

Key Aspects of the Virtual Patient​

Comprehensive Data Integration​

The Virtual Patient consolidates all relevant patient data (optical scans, CBCT, clinical findings, treatment outcomes, etc.) into a single, structured digital entity. This enables a unified view of the patient’s clinical state at a specific point in time.

Centralized Reference​

It acts as a central, structured reference for all treatments and clinical workflows, ensuring consistency and informed decision-making across teams and applications.

Iterative Updates​

As new data (e.g., new scans or treatment results) are added, the Virtual Patient is updated, creating new “snapshots” that reflect the patient’s evolving clinical situation.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration​

By serving as a shared data source, the Virtual Patient facilitates collaboration between different clinical disciplines and software products, breaking down data silos.

Visualization and Education​

The Virtual Patient enables advanced visualization for clinicians and can be used as an educational tool for both professionals and patients, helping to explain conditions and treatment options.

Automation and AI​

The Virtual Patient structure supports automation (e.g., AI-driven treatment proposals, automated design of prosthetics) and seamless integration with various clinical applications.

Summary​

In summary, a Virtual Patient is a dynamic, digital representation of a real patient, designed to centralize, structure, and visualize all relevant clinical data. It supports treatment planning, interdisciplinary workflows, and patient education within a digital ecosystem.