Neurosonography Evaluation of Brain Injuries in Preterm Neonates

Dr. Pushpak Tomar, Dr. Saurabh Goyal, Dr. Hariram, Dr. Kapil Dalal

Abstract: Background: Preterm birth, defined as delivery before 37 weeks of gestation, affects over 15 million infants annually and is a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. The immature brain is vulnerable to injuries such as germinal matrix hemorrhage, intraventricular hemorrhage, and periventricular leukomalacia. Neurosonography is a non - invasive, bedside imaging technique that uses open fontanelles to visualize the brain and is ideal for critically ill neonates due to its safety, portability, and repeatability. Methods: This observational study was conducted from July 2023 to December 2024 at the Department of Radiology, Pacific Institute of Medical Sciences, Udaipur. A total of 72 preterm neonates underwent cranial ultrasound using high - resolution linear probes. Results: Abnormal neurosonographic findings were observed in 37% of neonates. Cerebral edema (60%), periventricular flare (35%), and periventricular leukomalacia (15%) were the most common. Abnormal findings were significantly associated with adverse clinical outcomes. Conclusion: Cranial ultrasound is effective in detecting and monitoring brain injuries, guiding prognosis and management in the NICU.

Keywords: Critically ill neonates, Neurosonogram, NICU, Brain injury, Preterm infants