Ultrasound assessment of congenital spinal anomalies presenting in infancy

Sonography of the infant spine can rapidly and safely exclude or confirm the presence of a congenital malformation. This article reviews the embryology of the spinal cord, abnormal and normal sonographic findings, and findings associated with occult dysraphic lesions. Patient selection for sonographic assessment is also discussed. Illustrations of normal anatomy and the more common dysraphic lesions are provided.