Cranial Ultrasound

Ultrasound, Brain

Why It Is Done

Cranial ultrasound usually is done only on babies:

• As part of routine screening of babies born prematurely to detect bleeding in the brain, such as intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).
• To monitor any complications or to detect periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). IVH and PVL increase a baby's risk of developing disabilities, including cerebral palsy or mental retardation. See an illustration of a child's cranial ultrasound.
• To screen for brain problems that may be present from birth (such as congenital hydrocephalus).
• To evaluate an enlarging head.
• To detect infection or abnormal growths in or around the brain.

In adults, cranial ultrasound may be done during brain surgery to help locate a brain mass.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: February 20, 2007
Medical Review:	Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology
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