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Pediatric Radiology
Published in: Pediatric Radiology 5/2021

Open Access 01-05-2021 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging | Original Article

Current state of perinatal postmortem magnetic resonance imaging: European Society of Paediatric Radiology questionnaire-based survey and recommendations

Authors: Elspeth Whitby, Amaka C. Offiah, Susan C. Shelmerdine, Rick R. van Rijn, Michael Aertsen, Willemijn M. Klein, David Perry, Stacy K. Goergen, Christian Abel, Ajay Taranath, Dominic Gascho, Elka Miller, Owen J. Arthurs

Published in: Pediatric Radiology | Issue 5/2021

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Abstract

Background

Postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in perinatal and childhood deaths is increasingly used as a noninvasive adjunct or alternative to autopsy. Imaging protocols vary between centres and consensus guidelines do not exist.

Objective

Our aim was to develop practical, standardised recommendations for perinatal postmortem MRI.

Materials and methods

Recommendations were based on the results of two surveys regarding local postmortem MRI practices sent electronically to all 14 members of the European Society of Paediatric Radiology (ESPR) Postmortem Imaging Task Force and 17 members of the International Society of Forensic Radiology and Imaging Task Force (25 different centres).

Results

Overall, 11/14 (78.6%) respondents from different institutions perform postmortem MRI. All of these centres perform postmortem MRI for perinatal and neonatal deaths, but only 6/11 (54.5%) perform imaging in older children.

Conclusion

We propose a clinical standard for postmortem MRI sequences plus optional sequences for neuroimaging and cardiac anatomy depending on available scanning time and referral indications.
Appendix
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Metadata
Title
Current state of perinatal postmortem magnetic resonance imaging: European Society of Paediatric Radiology questionnaire-based survey and recommendations
Authors
Elspeth Whitby
Amaka C. Offiah
Susan C. Shelmerdine
Rick R. van Rijn
Michael Aertsen
Willemijn M. Klein
David Perry
Stacy K. Goergen
Christian Abel
Ajay Taranath
Dominic Gascho
Elka Miller
Owen J. Arthurs
Publication date
01-05-2021
Publisher
Springer Berlin Heidelberg
Published in
Pediatric Radiology / Issue 5/2021
Print ISSN: 0301-0449
Electronic ISSN: 1432-1998
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00247-020-04905-9

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