Purpose or Case Report: Cranial ultrasound (CUS) is typically the first imaging modality performed to evaluate challenging neonatal brain pathologies. Accurate and timely interpretation of these is clinically paramount. At many academic institutions, residents are often at the front line of this interpretation during call; with limited exposure a priori to taking call. This educational exhibit aims to provide an overview of cranial ultrasound acquisition, normal anatomy, normal variants, critical pathologies, and reporting guidelines that trainees should know prior to or when on-call.
Methods & Materials: This exhibit is comprised of cases from teaching hospitals which also serve as regional referral centers for neonatal intensive care. An overview of cranial ultrasound technique including image acquisition and standard acoustic windows is presented. Normal cranial anatomy and key anatomic landmarks are illustrated using both ultrasound images and schematic diagrams. Representative cases illustrating pathologies often encountered by on-call residents including intraventricular hemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, extra axial fluid collections, hydrocephalus, and infection will be reviewed. Common mimics, normal variants, and ultrasound artifacts are discussed to help distinguish true pathology. Reporting templates are integrated to promote clarity, consistency, and effective communication with clinical teams.
Results: By the conclusion of this exhibit, trainees will be able to:
1. Understand cranial ultrasound technique, normal anatomy, and common ultrasound artifacts.
2. Identify and interpret common neonatal intracranial pathologies.
3. Identify pathologies that require urgent communication.
4. Convey findings using structured and concise templates.
Conclusions: Cranial ultrasound is an imaging study unique to pediatric radiology that residents may have limited exposure to prior to taking call. Recognizing and reporting normal and abnormal intracranial findings in neonatal patients is crucial for accurate diagnosis and patient management.