A neonatal head ultrasound is a test that provides images of an infant’s brain.  A neonatal head ultrasound can be performed on a baby until the fontanel, which is the soft spot on the top of the baby’s head, closes.  This is one of the best ways to view a baby’s brain in the early stages of life. 

Often, neonatal head ultrasounds are used to identify intraventricular hemorrhages, or brain bleeds.  These can be serious and life threatening if left untreated.  Intraventricular hemorrhages are found most commonly in premature infants, especially under 32 weeks gestational age.

A neonatal head ultrasound is performed by placing the ultrasound probe on the infant’s fontanel, which has been covered with a gel like substance.  The probe will be positioned to take multiple images of the baby’s brain.  A head ultrasound on an infant may take up to 30 minutes or longer.

Once completed, the ultrasound images are sent to a radiologist to be examined and read.  The radiologist then reports their findings to the baby’s physician, who will then relay the ultrasound results to the parents.

A neonatal head ultrasound is very safe, and does not cause the infant any pain or harm.  It is a great tool in helping and promoting quality, optimal care for infants who are in the neonatal intensive care unit.