Pediatric Neurosonography: Comprehensive Review and Systematic Approach.

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Neurology
• Neonatal Imaging
• Diagnostic Ultrasound

Background:

• Neurosonography (NSG) is a critical tool for rapid, point-of-care assessment of the neonatal brain.
• Early detection of brain abnormalities in infants is essential for timely intervention and improved outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the comprehensive applications of NSG in pediatric care.
• To emphasize NSG's role in diagnosing and managing pediatric head pathologies.
• To advocate for the routine incorporation of NSG in neonatal screening protocols.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of NSG applications in pediatric neurology.
• Analysis of NSG's utility in diagnosing conditions like hypoxic-ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) and cerebrovascular abnormalities.
• Discussion of technical considerations for enhancing diagnostic accuracy.

Main Results:

• NSG aids in diagnosing scalp lesions, misshapen calvarium, ventricular distortions, and cerebrovascular abnormalities.
• It is valuable in critical care for infants with stroke risk (sickle cell disease), ECMO complications, and therapeutic hypothermia screening.
• Recommendations for NSG timing based on gestational age and brain injury are discussed.

Conclusions:

• NSG is pivotal for early diagnosis and management of neonatal brain disorders.
• Incorporating NSG into routine neonatal screening can significantly improve neurodevelopmental outcomes.
• The review underscores NSG's importance in clinical decision-making and long-term pediatric brain disorder management.