Diagnostic Utility of Spinal Ultrasounds in Neonates

Ultrasound (US) is a common imaging modality used to evaluate spinal anomalies in newborns. However, many indications for the use of spinal US are associated with low diagnostic yield. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the indications and the diagnostic utility of spinal USs performed in newborns at our institution. We also review patient presentations for caudal regression syndrome (CRS) that was identified from the USs performed.

This study is a retrospective review of spinal USs performed between January 1, 2006, and December 31, 2021, in newborns at a single institution. Indications for each US and any associated abnormalities were noted. Infants with abnormal USs showing CRS are described with their long-term medical outcomes.

A total of 592 USs were performed during the specified time period of which 72 (12%) were abnormal. The presence of a sacral dimple was the most common indication for performing a spinal US, although only 14 (4%) were identified as abnormal. Of these 14, 6 (43%) were further evaluated by spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at the recommendations of a pediatric radiologist and of these, only 2 (14%) had abnormal MRI findings. The two newborns with abnormal MRI findings had mothers with diabetes mellitus in their pregnancies. Of note, one additional newborn had abnormalities on spinal US that was never confirmed on MRI due to being lost to follow-up. Among the other indications, anorectal anomalies (odds ratio [OR], 7.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 3.01-18.91), spinal mass (OR, 17.99; 95% CI, 7.86-41.2), and meningocele were most associated with abnormal findings.

Overall, spinal US has a low diagnostic yield. Sacral dimple was the most common indication for performing a spinal US but had a low yield with few long-term sequelae. Anorectal anomalies had a strong association with abnormal US findings.

· Sacral dimple is a common indication for spinal ultrasound.. · Spinal ultrasound has low diagnostic yield when performed for sacral dimple.. · Caudal regression syndrome is associated with maternal diabetes and numerous long-term comorbidities..