Intramedullary spinal cord tumors in children: localization by intraoperative sonography

Intraoperative sonography was performed in 20 children in order to localize intramedullary spinal cord tumors. It provided excellent visualization of the extent and consistency of the tumor before surgical opening of the dura mater. The sonographic findings were used in selecting the site and extent of myelotomy. Intraoperative sonography proved to be a valuable adjunct to spinal cord surgery.