Perinatal mortality: clinical value of postmortem magnetic resonance imaging compared with autopsy in routine obstetric practice.
OBJECTIVE
To compare postmortem magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with autopsy in perinatal deaths. To determine the acceptance and feasibility of postmortem perinatal MRI.


METHODS
Cohort study.


METHODS
Large teaching hospital.


METHODS
Fetuses and neonates from 16 weeks gestational age until 28 days after birth, stillbirths as well as intrapartum and neonatal deaths.


METHODS
MRI was performed prior to autopsy in a consecutive cohort of perinatal deaths after full parental consent. Agreement between MRI and autopsy was calculated. The consent rate for both examinations was recorded separately, as well as the time between the perinatal death and the MRI.


METHODS
Full agreement between MRI and autopsy.


RESULTS
Of 58 cases, 26 parents consented to both examinations (45%). Autopsy showed 18 major malformations, of which 10 were detected with MRI. The positive predictive value of MRI was 80% (4/5) and the negative predictive value was 65% (13/20). Additional consent for MRI was given in eight cases (14%). In 84%, the MRI could be performed within 48 hours.


CONCLUSIONS
MRI is of value if autopsy is refused, but diagnostic accuracy is insufficient to recommend substitution of full autopsy. The acceptance rate of MRI only is better than that of autopsy.
Alderliesten
Marianne E
ME
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, OLVG Hospital, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Peringa
Jan
J
van der Hulst
Victor P M
VP
Blaauwgeers
Hans L G
HL
van Lith
Jan M M
JM
D001344:Autopsy; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005240:Feasibility Studies; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis*; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007226:Infant Mortality; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000592:standards*; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D012680:Sensitivity and Specificity