Cranial Ultrasound

Ultrasound, Brain

Why It Is Done

Cranial ultrasound usually is done only on babies:

  • As part of routine screening of babies born prematurely to detect bleeding in the brain, such as intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH).
  • To monitor any complications or to detect periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). IVH and PVL increase a baby's risk of developing disabilities, including cerebral palsy or mental retardation.
  • To screen for brain problems that may be present from birth (such as congenital hydrocephalus).
  • To evaluate an enlarging head.
  • To detect infection or abnormal growths in or around the brain.

In adults, cranial ultrasound may be done during brain surgery to help locate a brain mass.


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Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS Last Updated: January 5, 2009
Medical Review: Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology

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Topic Contents
 Test Overview
Arrow PointerWhy It Is Done
 How To Prepare
 How It Is Done
 How It Feels
 Risks
 Results
 What Affects the Test
 What To Think About
 References
 Credits