The basal ganglia are clusters of nerve cells located deep within the cerebral hemispheres that play important roles in coordinating voluntary movement, learning, and behavior. On neonatal cranial ultrasound, the basal ganglia can be visualized through the anterior fontanelle as slightly hyperechoic structures flanking the thalami in the central region of the brain. Damage to the basal ganglia in premature or sick newborns can occur from hypoxic-ischemic events, meaning a lack of oxygen and blood flow, and may appear as abnormally increased echogenicity in this area. Recognizing normal versus abnormal echogenicity of the basal ganglia is an important skill in neonatal cranial ultrasound.
Sonography Term