MR autopsy in fetuses.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to determine whether postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MR autopsy) could serve as an alternative to necropsy of fetuses. The value of MR autopsy in the validation of the obstetric management and in risk counseling concerning future pregnancies is discussed.


METHODS
10 consecutive, malformed fetuses were examined by postmortem MRI within 24 h of delivery. Prenatal ultrasound (US) was performed in all fetuses. Complete necropsy served as gold standard.


RESULTS
MR autopsy confirmed every US diagnosis responsible for termination. All MRI findings were confirmed by necropsy. In two fetuses, necropsy gave additional information relevant for risk counseling. Histologic examination corrected the diagnosis in one case.


CONCLUSIONS
MR autopsy provides valuable information previously only available from necropsy. In parents who refuse perinatal necropsy, the information obtained by MR autopsy can be used to validate obstetric management and to evaluate the risk for future pregnancies. Necropsy however remains the gold standard.
Huisman
Thierry A G M
TA
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University Hospital, Zurich, Switzerland. thierry@nmr.mgh.harvard.edu
Wisser
Josef
J
Stallmach
Thomas
T
Krestin
Gabriel P
GP
Huch
Renate
R
Kubik-Huch
Rahel A
RA
D000014:Abnormalities, Drug-Induced; D000028:Abortion, Induced; D000925:Anticoagulants / Q000009:adverse effects; D001344:Autopsy / Q000379:methods*; D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D003376:Counseling; D005260:Female; D005333:Fetus / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D005817:Genetic Counseling; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D011247:Pregnancy; D018570:Risk Assessment; D014859:Warfarin / Q000009:adverse effects
D000925:Anticoagulants; D014859:Warfarin