The role of post-mortem MRI in the neonatal intensive care unit

摘要: OBJECTIVE Post-mortem examination can provide important information about the cause of death and play a significant role in bereavement process. Autopsies reveal previous unknown medical problems approximately 20 to 30% time. A non-invasive magnetic resonance imaging-based post-mortem (PM-MRI) may an alternative for families who do not consent autopsy. STUDY DESIGN This study was prospective observational recently expired neonates infants. Subjects underwent full body MRI scan (brain, chest, abdomen pelvis) followed by conventional autopsy if family desired have one. results were compared with findings ante-mortem clinical diagnosis. follow-up survey conducted investigate perceptions PM-MRI RESULTS Thirty-one infants PM-MRI. Of 31 infants, 19 (61%) had complete agreement between clinician's impression Twenty-four also autopsy, 14/24 (58%) having consistent findings. superior at detection free intraperitoneal/intrathoracic air hepatic iron overload. Whole-body did resolution detect focal/microscopic injury, vascular remodeling some forms brain injury. those remembered findings, majority felt that useful. CONCLUSIONS studies adjunct substitute when latter is possible personal or religious reasons. Clinicians should be aware of, communicate family, limits whole-body certain types