Postmortem High-Resolution 7T MRI in a Reusable 3D-Printed enclosure with cutting guides for registration with gross anatomy

Motivation: Understanding the mechanisms behind cognitive decline in neurodegenerative diseases is crucial for maintaining health in later life. Postmortem MRI and histology to understand brain pathology. Goal(s): Finalizing the design and manufacturing of an ex vivo brain enclosure and cutting guide for 7T MR Imaging. Approach: The brain is placed in the container, covered with agar/sucrose, scanned, sectioned into parallel slabs, and then used for WMH segmentation and tissue-specific histological sampling. Results: The final container design, refined through extensive prototyping and feedback from scanning 148 brains, is made from bleach- and autoclave-safe Victrex AM200 (PAEK), with potential for indefinite use under ideal conditions. Impact: This 3D-printed brain container and cutting guide enhance postmortem imaging precision and WMH segmentation, offering consistent high-resolution imaging, efficient histological processing, and potential adaptation for other non-chambered organs in anatomical studies.