Radiography in post-mortem examinations of fetuses and neonates. Findings on plain films and at arteriography.

During the last decade there has been an increasing interest in radiological investigation of stillborns and neonates as a supplement to autopsy. A consecutive series of 137 fetuses and neonates is presented. Prior to autopsy plain X-ray films were taken, and in 50% arteriography was performed by injecting contrast medium into an umbilical or femoral artery. On the plain films only 41% were normal. The major part of the abnormal radiographs exhibited minor abnormalities such as transverse lines or "stress-lines" of the bones, cercival ribs or an abnormal numbers of ribs. Major abnormalities were seen in 9%. Most of these were abnormalities of the spine. The arteriographs were very detailed and were abnormal in 29% of the cases. The technique was not suitable for demonstration of heart malformations. It is concluded that plain film X-ray of soft tissues and bones is recommendable as a routine procedure, whereas arteriography should be limited to cases suspected of vascular malformations or if an autopsy cannot be performed.