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

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.

Automated summary

The study conducted surveys on pediatric and forensic radiology centers in Europe and internationally, revealing that the majority of institutions perform postmortem MRI for perinatal and neonatal deaths, but the percentage is lower for imaging in older children. Standardized recommendations for postmortem MRI sequences were proposed, with optional sequences for neuroimaging and cardiac anatomy depending on scan time and referral indications.