Ultrasound evaluation of the upper airway in children: technique and applications

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Radiology
• Medical Imaging
• Ultrasound Technology

Background:

• Ultrasound (US) is a common initial imaging modality for neonates and children.
• US of the pediatric upper airway is underutilized despite its simplicity and interpretability.
• The anterior transverse view is crucial for assessing the pediatric upper airway.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a pictorial review of pediatric upper airway ultrasound.
• To describe the sonographic technique and relevant anatomy.
• To illustrate sonographic features of common pediatric upper airway pathologies.

Main Methods:

• This is a pictorial review.
• Describes sonographic technique and anatomy of the pediatric upper airway.
• Includes diagrammatic illustrations and images of pathologies.

Main Results:

• Details the primary and most important anterior transverse view for airway assessment.
• Illustrates anatomical landmarks of the pediatric upper airway.
• Presents sonographic findings for various upper airway pathologies in children.

Conclusions:

• Pediatric upper airway ultrasound is a valuable, simple, and interpretable imaging tool.
• This review serves as a guide to the technique, anatomy, and pathology.
• Enhances the utilization of US for pediatric airway evaluation.