Jonas Christoph Apitzsch MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

Saskia Westphal, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Tobias Penzkofer MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Christiane Katharina Kuhl MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Ruth Knuchel-Clarke PhD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Andreas Horst Mahnken MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

To evaluate the diagnostic value of contrast enhanced post mortem computed tomography in comparison to non-enhanced post mortem CT in the detection of cardiovascular causes of death

In a prospective study, 20 corpses were examined using a 64-row multisclice CT before and after intraarterial perfusion with a newly developed, barium-bearing contrast agent and ventilation of the lungs. The cause of death was determined in enhanced and unenhanced scans and a level of confidence was given by three experienced radiologists on a scale between 0 and 4. Results were compared to autopsy results as gold standard. Autopsy was performed blinded to PMCT-findings

The method allowed visualization of different types of cause of death. There was a significant improvement in Level Of Confidence in enhanced scans compared to unenhanced scans as well as an improvement in the detection of cause of death. The cause of death could be determined in 19 out of 20 patients

PMCT is feasible and appears to be robust for diagnosing cardiovascular causes of death. When compared with unenhanced post-mortem CT intraarterial perfusion and pulmonary ventilation significantly improve visualization and diagnostic accuracy.

PMCT is on its way to close the gap between virtual and conventional autopsy. Until now, both methods should be seen as complementary, each one adding valuable information to the other.

Apitzsch, J, Westphal, S, Penzkofer, T, Kuhl, C, Knuchel-Clarke, R, Mahnken, A, The Use of Contrast-enhanced Post Mortem CT in the Detection of Cardiovascular Deaths.  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14045673.html