trial medical illustrations

few weeks ago we talked about the need for Philadelphia medical illustrations at trial, and why textbook and medical images aren’t enough to make your case to the jury. But a medical illustration is only as good as the illustrator behind it. An illustration has to recreate the severity of an injury without crossing the line into gory. It also has to be medically accurate while understandable to a lay audience. The best medical illustrators are part artist, part scientist: they are skilled in design and illustration, but also have specialized training in anatomy, cellular biology and the like.

So what can you expect working with a Philadelphia medical illustrator? What is the process by which these illustrations are created?

Working With a Philadelphia Medical Illustrator

Medical illustrations for trials are developed by a team consisting of the attorney, the illustrator, and a physician who will act as an expert witness. The attorney informs the illustrator about the case narrative and history, the sequence of medical treatment, and the final results. The attorney will also explain what they wish to demonstrate to the jury through the illustration and how they will incorporate it into their presentation.

The illustrator then reviews the medical records, depositions, and any medical imaging that is available. The illustrator uses this information to draft a proposed list of exhibits that would best display the injury to the jury. The attorney and physician review the proposal and approve or request changes as necessary.

Once the proposal has been approved, the medical illustrator gets to work. They begin with pencil drawings that are submitted to the physician, who will sign off on the medical accuracy of the drawings. This is also when final adjustments can be made. A good medical illustration often consists of a lot of back and forth between the attorney, the physician, and the illustrator. Each is an expert in their field and views the illustration from a different perspective: the physician focuses on medical accuracy; the attorney focuses on juror comprehension; and the illustrator finds the balance between both. It is good to have thorough discussion and review of the sketches, since it will result in minimal or no changes to the final product.

After both the attorney and physician sign off on the pencil sketches, the illustrator will begin producing the final full-color illustrations. Once completed, they are submitted for final approval, and files are sent to the printer for the production of exhibit boards and to the attorney for projection.

Precise: Expert Medical Illustrators in Philadelphia

Medical illustrations are one of the best investments you can make in your case. Don’t try to “make do” with textbook drawings and x-rays: our illustrators can work with you no matter where in the country you are located. Call us today at 866-277-3247 to learn more.