Initial experiences of a minimally invasive autopsy service. A report of the techniques and observations in the first 11 cases.

Our goal was to set up a clinical service for minimally invasive postmortem examination for the fetal and neonatal age group. The minimally invasive service consisted of imaging, external review, placental examination, and ancillary tests that form part of the formal autopsy process. Eleven patients had imaging and relevant conditions at death successfully determined with the minimally invasive service. We conclude that a minimally invasive autopsy service for fetal and neonatal cases is possible and acceptable to patients and professionals.