Transcranial ultrasonography via sonolucent implants: a review

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Critical Care Medicine
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Transcranial ultrasound (TCUS) through sonolucent implants is gaining global traction in neurosurgical and neurocritical care.
• This technique offers a versatile platform for various clinical applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically review the clinical utility of TCUS via sonolucent implants.
• To evaluate its diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic potential.
• To explore emerging interventional applications and future research directions.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and critical appraisal of existing studies.
• Analysis of TCUS applications in hydrocephalus monitoring, postoperative surveillance, and cerebrovascular surgery.
• Exploration of focused ultrasound therapies and technical limitations.

Main Results:

• TCUS demonstrates utility in assessing ventricular size, monitoring hydrocephalus, detecting postoperative fluid collections/hemorrhage, and evaluating bypass patency.
• Emerging interventional uses for focused ultrasound therapies are identified.
• Technical challenges like imaging artifacts and lack of standardized protocols are noted.

Conclusions:

• TCUS via sonolucent implants is a valuable tool with significant diagnostic and therapeutic potential in neurocritical care.
• Addressing technical limitations and standardizing protocols are crucial for broader clinical adoption.
• Further research is needed to fully realize its capabilities, including interventional applications.