FETEAL & STILLBORN DEATHS

A stillborn fetus less than 350 grams or, if weight is unknown, less than 20 weeks gestational age  with no heartbeat at birth should be sent to Surgical Pathology with a Surgical Pathology requisition form. (This should be first)

Placentas of any fetal demise need to be sent to surgical pathology

Stillborn fetus weighing over 350 gm or, or if weight is not known, over 20 weeks gestational age should not be sent to surgical pathology. A Form 5012 (with link) should be completed by the pronouncing physician, nursing service & Autopsy Service. The pronouncing physician is responsible for contacting the legal NOK and discussing autopsy with the legal NOK.

UTMB offers an autopsy at no charge.

FUNERNAL HOME RELEASE OF FETUSES SENT TO SURGICAL PATHOLOGY

If the next-of-kin requests a funeral home release on a Surgical Pathology fetus (less than 350 grams or, if weight is unknown, less than 20 weeks gestation), complete Section 3C of the Form 5012 (Disposition of the body). Send the FORM 5012 signed by the next-of-kin to surgical pathology, along with the fetus.