Head Ultrasound

 Evidence 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1751722218301392 

Anitha C. James 

Cranial ultrasonography is a reliable and readily available tool for neonatal brain imaging. It has become indispensable in the care of neonates as it helps to detect common congenital and acquired brain abnormalities. The use of modern ultrasound scan machines with the appropriate choice of probes, settings and acoustic windows has improved the diagnostic value of the cranial ultrasound in experienced hands. 

Education 

A Cranial (head) ultrasound is a safe, painless and non-invasive scan used to take pictures of a baby’s brain. It helps doctors check for any issues that can sometimes happen in sick or premature babies.  

The scan is usually done at your baby’s bedside in the neonatal unit. An ultrasound technician places a small amount of clear gel on the baby’s head and uses the ultrasound machine’s small wand (transducer) to produce images of the brain. This scan is like the one that most mothers have during pregnancy. 

Head ultrasounds help doctors look for: 

• Bleeding in the brain (intraventricular haemorrhage or IVH) 
  This is more common in babies born before 32 weeks. 

• Fluid build-up in the brain (hydrocephalus) 
  This can happen if there has been bleeding or infection. 

• White matter injury (periventricular leukomalacia or PVL) 
  This is a type of injury that can affect the brain’s development. 

• Signs of infection or other structural concerns 

This information helps your baby’s medical team make the best care decisions early on and plan for any extra support your baby might need in the future. 

A specialist doctor called a radiologist will look at the images and write a report. The neonatal team will talk with you about the results, what they mean, and whether any further scans or treatments are needed. 

Some findings may be explained straight away, while others might take a day or two to be reviewed fully. 

Empowerment 

We understand that having your baby go through tests can be worrying. You are an important part of your baby’s care team. Here’s how you can stay informed and involved: 

• Ask questions: It's okay to ask what the scan is for, what it found, or what happens next. 

• Stay close: You can often stay with your baby during the scan if you feel comfortable. 

• Take notes: Sometimes it helps to write down what doctors say or ask for a summary. 

• Speak up: If something is unclear, ask your care team to explain again. They want to support you.

Useful Links 

Kids Health 

https://kidshealth.org/en/parents/ultrasound-head.html 

Panda - Perinatal Mental Health   

https://panda.org.au/   

COPE – Centre of Perinatal Excellence   

http://www.cope.org.au/new-parents/first-weeks/coping-following-a-premature-birth/  

For When – Perinatal Mental Health and Wellbeing  

https://forwhenhelpline.org.au/