Ultrasonography (US) is the first-line imaging modality for screening neonates and young infants with suspected spinal abnormalities. Whether performed for a suspicious congenital skin lesion, such as a lumbosacral tract or lipomatous mass, or abnormal neurological findings, US can help define spinal anatomy, characterize congenital spine malformations, and direct further work-up and management. The purpose of this article is to review the diagnostic imaging approach to infant spine US, including technique and indications, normal anatomy and variants with a focus on embryological origins, and classification and diagnosis of congenital spine malformations.
Keywords: Congenital; Dysraphism; Infant; Neonatal; Spinal cord; Spine; Ultrasound.
© 2021. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature.