Newborn screening with ultrasound is a systematic approach to detecting congenital abnormalities and disease in the immediate postnatal period. The most common application is cranial ultrasound through the open anterior fontanelle in premature infants to screen for intraventricular hemorrhage and white matter injury. Hip ultrasound using the Graf technique screens for developmental dysplasia of the hip. Cardiac screening with echocardiography detects structural heart defects. Renal ultrasound screens for hydronephrosis, renal dysplasia, and other urinary tract abnormalities. Abdominal ultrasound can evaluate organs and assess for free fluid. These screening exams in the newborn period are critical because early detection allows for timely intervention and improves long-term outcomes.
Sonography Term