A newborn ultrasound is a medical imaging technique that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of a baby’s internal organs and structures. This non-invasive procedure is safe and gentle for infants, as it does not involve radiation. The sound waves bounce off tissues and are translated into visual images on a monitor.
Reasons for a Newborn Ultrasound
A newborn might require an ultrasound for various medical reasons. Often, the need arises from findings during routine physical examinations, such as a doctor detecting an unusual hip click or noting concerns about head circumference. Ultrasounds can also be performed if there is a family history of conditions, indicating a genetic predisposition.
Premature birth is another common reason for an ultrasound, as preterm infants may have a higher risk of neurological complications. If concerns were identified during prenatal scans, a postnatal ultrasound can provide further evaluation.
Types of Newborn Ultrasounds and Their Purpose
Newborn ultrasounds assess specific body areas, each designed to detect particular conditions.
Head Ultrasound
A head ultrasound is commonly performed on premature infants to examine the brain. This scan can help identify conditions such as intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), bleeding within the brain’s ventricles, or periventricular leukomalacia (PVL), brain injury affecting the white matter. It can also detect hydrocephalus, a buildup of fluid in the brain, or other masses like tumors or cysts.
Hip Ultrasound
A hip ultrasound is frequently used to screen for developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH), where the hip joint does not form correctly. It is relevant for babies with risk factors like breech presentation, a family history of DDH, or if a physical exam reveals hip instability or a “click.” The ultrasound allows assessment of the femoral head’s position within the hip socket and its stability.
Kidney or Abdominal Ultrasound
Kidney or abdominal ultrasounds are performed to evaluate the structure of the kidneys and other abdominal organs. These scans can detect hydronephrosis, swelling of the kidney due to urine backup, often found on prenatal ultrasounds. This helps determine if there is a blockage in the urinary tract or if urine is refluxing back towards the kidneys.
Spine Ultrasound
A spine ultrasound is used to screen for spinal cord anomalies, especially in infants with skin markers on their lower back. These markers, such as dimples, tufts of hair, or birthmarks, might indicate an underlying issue like spina bifida occulta or a tethered spinal cord. The ultrasound helps visualize the spinal cord and its surrounding structures to determine if further investigation is needed.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A newborn ultrasound is typically performed in a hospital’s radiology department or a specialized clinic. The baby is positioned comfortably on an examination table, on their back or side, depending on the area being scanned. For some scans, parents may be asked to undress their baby partially.
Water-soluble gel is applied to the baby’s skin over the area to be examined. This gel helps the handheld transducer, a small wand, make good contact with the skin and transmit sound waves. The sonographer gently moves the transducer over the gelled area, capturing real-time images on a monitor. The procedure is painless, usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, and most infants tolerate it well.
Interpreting the Results
After the ultrasound is completed, a radiologist, a doctor specializing in medical imaging, will review and interpret the images. These findings are compiled into a detailed report, sent to your baby’s pediatrician or a relevant specialist. Parents generally receive results within a few days to a week, often discussed during a follow-up appointment.
Results typically fall into categories: normal findings, minor variations not requiring intervention, or findings indicating a condition needing further investigation. Discuss these results thoroughly with your healthcare provider. They will explain the implications and outline any necessary follow-up care, which might include additional tests or specialist consultations.