Neonatal Head Ultrasound

Neonatal Head Ultrasound is an exam that obtains images of the brain through the anterior fontanel with sound waves. A hand-held transducer (probe) is used to create images of the infant brain. This exam is used to identify hydrocephalus or germinal matrix bleeding in the neonatal period.

Preparation

• Typically there is no prep for this procedure.
• Arrive 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment with a prescription if your doctor has given one to you.

Procedure

• The infant will lie on the exam table.
• A non-greasy gel will be applied to the area of the anterior fontanel.
• The sonographer will use a hand-held transducer (probe) against the infant's top of the head (anterior fontanel) to obtain images of the brain.

Considerations

• Bring things to keep infant comfortable (i.e., bottle, blanket, pacifier).
• Please remember that additional children beyond the infant patient are not allowed with you in the exam room. Bringing unsupervised children with you to the exam will result in the need to reschedule your appointment.