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Open Access 01-06-2018 | Review

Dutch guideline for clinical foetal-neonatal and paediatric post-mortem radiology, including a review of literature

Authors: L. J. P. Sonnemans, M. E. M. Vester, E. E. M. Kolsteren, J. J. H. M. Erwich, P. G. J. Nikkels, P. A. M. Kint, R. R. van Rijn, W. M. Klein, On behalf of the Dutch post-mortem imaging guideline group

Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics | Issue 6/2018

Abstract

Clinical post-mortem radiology is a relatively new field of expertise and not common practice in most hospitals yet. With the declining numbers of autopsies and increasing demand for quality control of clinical care, post-mortem radiology can offer a solution, or at least be complementary. A working group consisting of radiologists, pathologists and other clinical medical specialists reviewed and evaluated the literature on the diagnostic value of post-mortem conventional radiography (CR), ultrasonography, computed tomography (PMCT), magnetic resonance imaging (PMMRI), and minimally invasive autopsy (MIA). Evidence tables were built and subsequently a Dutch national evidence-based guideline for post-mortem radiology was developed. We present this evaluation of the radiological modalities in a clinical post-mortem setting, including MIA, as well as the recently published Dutch guidelines for post-mortem radiology in foetuses, neonates, and children. In general, for post-mortem radiology modalities, PMMRI is the modality of choice in foetuses, neonates, and infants, whereas PMCT is advised in older children. There is a limited role for post-mortem CR and ultrasonography. In most cases, conventional autopsy will remain the diagnostic method of choice.

Conclusion: Based on a literature review and clinical expertise, an evidence-based guideline was developed for post-mortem radiology of foetal, neonatal, and paediatric patients.

What is Known:

• Post-mortem investigations serve as a quality check for the provided health care and are important for reliable epidemiological registration.

• Post-mortem radiology, sometimes combined with minimally invasive techniques, is considered as an adjunct or alternative to autopsy.

What is New:

• We present the Dutch guidelines for post-mortem radiology in foetuses, neonates and children.

• Autopsy remains the reference standard, however minimal invasive autopsy with a skeletal survey, post-mortem computed tomography, or post-mortem magnetic resonance imaging can be complementary thereof.

Available only for authorised users

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Title: Dutch guideline for clinical foetal-neonatal and paediatric post-mortem radiology, including a review of literature
Authors: L. J. P. Sonnemans
M. E. M. Vester
E. E. M. Kolsteren
J. J. H. M. Erwich
P. G. J. Nikkels
P. A. M. Kint
R. R. van Rijn
W. M. Klein
On behalf of the Dutch post-mortem imaging guideline group
Publication date: 01-06-2018
Publisher: Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in: European Journal of Pediatrics / Issue 6/2018
Print ISSN: 0340-6199
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1076
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00431-018-3135-9

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Dutch guideline for clinical foetal-neonatal and paediatric post-mortem radiology, including a review of literature

Abstract

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

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