Post mortem CT angiography in fetuses or newborn: Very affordable pump and catheter solution. (June 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schweitzer, Wolf; Thali, Michael; Martinez, Rosa Maria; Ebert, Lars
• Is Part Of: Journal of forensic radiology and imaging. Volume 13(2017)
• Page Start: 17
• Page End: 22
• Publication Date: 2018-06
• Subjects: Virtopsy -- Post mortem CT angiography -- Fetal imaging; Forensic radiography -- Periodicals; Magnetic resonance imaging -- Periodicals; Diagnostic imaging -- Periodicals; Diagnostic imaging; Forensic radiography; Magnetic resonance imaging; Periodicals; 614.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jofri.2018.04.001
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2212-4780

Abstract

Highlights: Very difficult technical problem. Solution in theory, practically and applied. Direct application as next step. Abstract: This technical note describes a pump and catheter setup that is geared towards performing post mortem computed tomography angiography (PMCTA) examinations in fetal humans. With a voltage controlled very affordable immersion pump and a modified butterfly injection needle, relatively stable linear voltage flow rate relationships can be obtained across flow rates in the range of 30 to 150 ml/min. Flow rates are calculated and compared with actual measurements, whereas practical results suggest a degree of turbulence within the setup used. Practical testing with a fetal pig results in excellent vascular filling. This was subject to considerable partial volume effect, however, so using a micro computed tomography scanner for better quality scans of PMCTA for fetal humans is highly recommended.