Abstract
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) represents a non-invasive alternative to full autopsy in neonatal death if parents refuse classical full autopsy. MRI offers high resolution images of the entire neonate without disrupting the integrity of the child. Neonatal malformations or pathologies that are responsible for the death of the neonate can be identified. A major disadvantage of MR-autopsy is the lack of tissue sampling. Chromosomal, histological or microbiological analyses are consequently missing. MR-autopsy has proven to be especially helpful in the evaluation of the central nervous system but is limited in complex cardiac malformations. The limitations and possibilities of MR-autopsy are discussed.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 347-353 |
Number of pages | 7 |
Journal | Seminars in Neonatology |
Volume | 9 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Aug 2004 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- Autopsy
- Counselling
- Magnetic resonance imaging
- MR-autopsy
- Neonatal death
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Pediatrics, Perinatology, and Child Health