(1) To revisethe technique of cranial ultrasound; (2) to learn the normal cranial anatomy as seen on ultrasound examination; (3) to review the main normal variants that shouldn't be interpreted as abnormal; (4) to look at the spectrum of cranial lesions found on ultrasound; (5) to discuss the limits of ultrasound compared to other neuro-imaging techniques.

Cranial ultrasound represents a very significant tool in the management of the premature, high risk or symptomatic infants. Ultrasound examination is advantageous because it does not require the use of ionizing radiation or sedation; it is easily reproducible and portable. The availability of ultrasound has led to a reduction in the proportion of patients receiving CT scans. US helps in assessing the neurologic status of the child, since clinical examination and symptoms are often nonspecific. It gives information about immediate and long term prognosis. Indications...

I. Technique of cranial ultrasound A. Probes Primarily a small footprint, wide sector, mid.-frequency probe is essential. Ideally a specific 5-8MHz vector probe is to be used. Then a high frequency linear array is used to assess superficial structures and a curvilinear probe for axial trans-temporal images. B. Scanning technique Clinical information is essential. Getting the maximum of information about the patient should be the first step of any ultrasound examination. More than one transducer and acoustic window should be used to optimize the results...

Cranial ultrasound directly influences the clinical management of patients and emerges as the primary imaging procedure for the brain in infants less than three months of age. This is even more true when modern protocols are used, making cranial sonography highly accurate for the detection of cranial abnormalities.

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