Performing a Perinatal Autopsy

Abstract

Intrauterine fetal demise or termination for malformation is adverse obstetric outcomes, agonizing for the parents and frustrating for health care providers. These events are often unpredictable and investigation entails not only the evaluation of the fetus/neonate but also the placenta. Though nothing can compensate the bereavement of families who have encountered fetal or a neonatal loss, a meticulous study of the placental, fetal, and neonatal tissues provides succor and help in the healing process. In recent times, with extensive advances in the pediatric specialty, the significance and requirements for perinatal autopsy have also commensurately heightened. There is an inordinate need for an accurate diagnosis in order to render genetic counseling and ascertain the implications of possible recurrence in future pregnancies. A conscientious perinatal autopsy, supplemented by cytogenetic and metabolic evaluation, followed by dissemination of the information to the parents, clinicians, and public health organizations is of paramount importance. This not only assists in the clinical management and bereavement closure but also helps in the reduction of perinatal mortality and morbidity. An autopsy protocol assists in performing an adequate perinatal dissection, facilitates the recognition and documentation of all relevant information and in addition also provides a format for the collection, recording and presenting of data which facilitates collaborative research. A brief account of the benefits and techniques of perinatal autopsy and the protocol are presented.

Keywords

Perinatal autopsy - Protocol - Consent form - Autopsy technique - In situ examination - Provisional anatomic diagnosis

Publication History

Received: 18 September 2015

Accepted: 12 October 2015

Article published online:
08 May 2023