Post-mortem computed tomography (PMCT) and PMCT-angiography after transvascular cardiac interventions

Area of Science:

• Forensic Radiology
• Cardiovascular Imaging
• Medical Autopsy

Background:

• Post Mortem Computed Tomography (PMCT) is increasingly used in autopsies.
• PMCT-angiography can enhance PMCT findings.
• Both techniques have shown value in post-cardiac surgery complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the utility of PMCT and PMCT-angiography.
• To assess their capabilities in visualizing complications after transvascular cardiac interventions.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of PMCT findings.
• Analysis of 140 PMCT-angiographies in cases with prior transvascular cardiac interventions.

Main Results:

• PMCT and PMCT-angiography detected bleeding, cardiac tamponade, perforations, and device positions.
• Visualization of air embolism and device complications like fractures was achieved.
• Assessment of bleeding origin and quantity was possible.

Conclusions:

• PMCT and PMCT-angiography are valuable for identifying complications and causes of death after transvascular interventions.
• These imaging modalities can confirm procedural success and guide autopsy.
• In select cases, they may potentially substitute for traditional autopsy.