Musculoskeletal imaging in neonates: use of ultrasound

Pediatr Radiol. 2022 Apr;52(4):765-776. doi: 10.1007/s00247-021-05152-2. Epub 2021 Sep 7.

Abstract

High-resolution US is a practical, cost-effective modality to evaluate the musculoskeletal system in neonates. US can be performed portably in the neonatal intensive care unit so that the critically ill infant can be evaluated with minimal distress. Sonography is noninvasive and does not require sedation; typical questions that might require the use of MRI or CT in older children can be rapidly resolved with US. Dynamic imaging can be used in real time to stress joints and see how articular structures relate. Given the advantages of US within the neonatal population, it has been widely used to evaluate for neonatal fractures, congenital joint abnormalities, limb deficiencies as well as muscular and soft-tissue abnormalities.

Keywords: Brachial plexus birth palsy; Congenital radial head dislocation; Fibromatosis colli; Infection; Musculoskeletal; Neonates; Transphyseal fractures; Ultrasound.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Fractures, Bone*
  • Humans
  • Infant
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Joint Diseases*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Musculoskeletal System*
  • Ultrasonography / methods