Sonographic Assessment of the Neonatal Spine and the Potential for New Technologies to Aid in Diagnoses

Abstract

Many spinal disorders, whether congenital or acquired, are likely to have an improved outcome if they are promptly identified. A rapid diagnosis may eliminate progressive sequela and provide insight to possible treatment plans. Although there are various medical imaging modalities for evaluating the neonatal spine, diagnostic medical sonography provides a safe (no exposure to ionizing radiation), quick, and inexpensive approach. Spinal diagnostic medical sonography can be performed in neonates as long as the vertebral column is not completely ossified. Diagnostic medical sonography is a valuable technique that, in addition to 2D imaging, provides 3D, extended field of view (EFOV), and M-mode imaging. Diagnostic medical sonography can identify normal spinal anatomy and variants, congenital malformations, and acquired diseases subsequent to birth-related trauma and lumbar punctures. This article discusses the normal embryology of the spine. Indications for neonatal spinal diagnostic medical sonography are reviewed along with a description of sonographic examination techniques. A review of spinal pathology and their embryological origin will be outlined as well as normal variants seen with sonography. A detailed literature review is provided evaluating case studies and their findings.