Related Experiment Videos
Running a postmortem service--a business case and clinical experience
Marta C Cohen1, Elspeth Whitby, Michelle A Fink
1Academic Unit of Child Health, Sheffield Children's NHS Foundation Trust, University of Sheffield, Western Bank, Sheffield, S10 2TH, UK.
Pediatric Radiology
|April 2, 2015
Summary
Minimally invasive autopsy and postmortem imaging offer alternatives to traditional autopsies for perinatal and pediatric deaths. These advanced techniques aid in determining cause of death, identifying new conditions, and informing family planning.
Area of Science:
- Forensic Pathology
- Medical Imaging
- Pediatric Medicine
Background:
- Postmortem examinations are crucial for determining cause of death and informing future family planning.
- Paediatric autopsy rates have declined globally due to religious objections and historical scandals.
- Non-invasive imaging alternatives to traditional autopsy have been explored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present the essentials of a business case for minimally invasive autopsy.
- To share British and Australian experiences in establishing minimally invasive autopsy and postmortem imaging services.
- To highlight the role of imaging as a complementary tool to traditional autopsy.
Main Methods:
- Establishment of a minimally invasive fetal, perinatal, and neonatal autopsy service at Sheffield Children's Hospital.
- Development of a clinical postmortem imaging service in Melbourne, Australia.
- Review of pathological and radiological aspects for service implementation.
Main Results:
- Minimally invasive autopsy services have been successfully implemented in the UK.
- Postmortem imaging services are operational in Australia as a complementary tool.
- These approaches provide valuable insights into perinatal and pediatric deaths.
Conclusions:
- Minimally invasive autopsy and postmortem imaging are viable alternatives/adjuncts to traditional methods.
- These services can help address declining autopsy rates and provide crucial information for families.
- Successful implementation requires careful consideration of pathological and radiological aspects.