Simcock, IC;
Shelmerdine, SC;
Hutchinson, JC;
Sebire, NJ;
Arthurs, OJ;
(2021)
Human fetal whole-body postmortem microfocus computed tomographic imaging.
Nature Protocols
, 16
(5)
pp. 2594-2614.
10.1038/s41596-021-00512-6.
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Text (Protocol)
Simcock_NP-P200408B Arthurs Main manuscript 11-12-20.pdf - Accepted Version Download (446kB) | Preview |
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Text (Supplementary note - consent form and explanation)
Simcock_NP-P200408B Arthurs Supplementary note - consent form and explanation.pdf Download (219kB) | Preview |
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Text (Supplementary Note - Reagent safety guidance)
Simcock_NP-P200408B Arthurs Supplementary Note - Reagent safety guidance.pdf Download (15kB) | Preview |
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Image (Figure 1)
Simcock_Fig. 1 Microcomputed tomographic imaging.tif Download (245kB) | Preview |
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Image (Figure 2)
Simcock_Fig. 2 Key parts of the workflow for human fetal whole body post-mortem microcomputed tomographic imaging.tif Download (139kB) | Preview |
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Image (Figure 3)
Simcock_Fig. 3 Equipment needed.tif Download (999kB) | Preview |
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Image (Figure 4)
Simcock_Fig. 4 Fetal preparation.tif Download (292kB) | Preview |
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Simcock_Fig. 5 Tissue preparation with I2KI.tif Download (370kB) | Preview |
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Image (Figure 6)
Simcock_Fig. 6 Representative images of a fetus.tif Download (529kB) | Preview |
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Simcock_Fig. 7 Positioning and image parameters.tif Download (704kB) | Preview |
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Image (Figure 8)
Simcock_Fig. 8 Troubleshooting examples Issues occurring micro-CT scanning that require optimizastion of the workflow.tif Download (671kB) | Preview |
Abstract
Perinatal autopsy is the standard method for investigating fetal death; however, it requires dissection of the fetus. Human fetal microfocus computed tomography (micro-CT) provides a generally more acceptable and less invasive imaging alternative for bereaved parents to determine the cause of early pregnancy loss compared with conventional autopsy techniques. In this protocol, we describe the four main stages required to image fetuses using micro-CT. Preparation of the fetus includes staining with the contrast agent potassium triiodide and takes 3–19 d, depending on the size of the fetus and the time taken to obtain consent for the procedure. Setup for imaging requires appropriate positioning of the fetus and takes 1 h. The actual imaging takes, on average, 2 h 40 min and involves initial test scans followed by high-definition diagnostic scans. Postimaging, 3 d are required to postprocess the fetus, including removal of the stain, and also to undertake artifact recognition and data transfer. This procedure produces high-resolution isotropic datasets, allowing for radio-pathological interpretations to be made and long-term digital archiving for re-review and data sharing, where required. The protocol can be undertaken following appropriate training, which includes both the use of micro-CT techniques and handling of postmortem tissue.
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