What are the novel findings of this work?This is the first study to compare microfocus computed tomography (micro-CT) and high-field magnetic resonance imaging (HF-MRI) in postmortem whole-body fetal imaging. We have shown that micro-CT enables higher quality imaging, with higher resolution, image contrast and signal-to-noise ratio, compared with HF-MRI. Furthermore, the ability to recognize and assess anatomical structures is greater when using micro-CT images.
What are the clinical implications of this work?This work represents advancement in postmortem fetal imaging as a service for parents who have experienced early pregnancy loss. Previously, it was assumed that the performance of HF-MRI and micro-CT was similar and that the choice of the imaging modality should depend on availability. Here, we provide substantial evidence that micro-CT is superior to HF-MRI and, therefore, should be the preferred imaging modality.
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