Ultrasound Neonatal Spine

Generally used to asses for spina-bifida, hemi-vertebra, and any suspicion of tethered cord, meningocele or other neural tube defect. Natal pit/cleft is a common indication.

The baby’s clothes will need to be removed.

Ultrasound gel is placed on the skin, over the spine, and the transducer run along the spine assessing the spine in lengthwise and cross-wise direction. Images are obtained. The spinal cord and its terminal branches are observed to look for movement during respiration (breathing). The Radiologist might, or might not observe the live imaging.

The specialised doctor will carefully analyse your images and make a report to your referring doctor. If the referring doctor is in the hospital they will be able to access the results on the computer. If they are not the clerks will be able to burn the results on a disc.