Real-time ultrasonography: its use in diagnosis and management of neonatal hydrocephalus

J. D. Horbar, K. Leahy and J. F. Lucey

Real-time ultrasonography of the brain is useful in the examination of neonates with suspected hydrocephalus. Abnormalities of the cerebral ventricles can be identified and changes in ventricular size determined with repeated studies performed at the bedside. The response of hydrocephalus to medical and surgical intervention can be monitored. We studied cases of hydrocephalic infants with myelomeningocele, posterior fossa cyst, posthemorrhagic hydrocephalus, meningitis, and congenital intracranial teratoma. We also studied the role of ultrasonography in the diagnosis and follow-up of these cases.