Role of transcranial ultrasound in evaluation of intracranial haemorrhage in preterm neonates- A Prospective Observational Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48047/Keywords:
Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH), Transcranial ultrasound (TCUS), neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).Abstract
Background
Intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) is a critical concern in preterm neonates, impacting long-term neurological outcomes. Traditional cranial ultrasound (US) has been essential for detecting ICH, but transcranial ultrasound (TUS) offers enhanced imaging capabilities. TUS utilizes highfrequency sound waves to provide detailed visualization of the brain structures, particularly valuable in preterm infants with more pliable skulls. This advanced imaging technique improves the detection of hemorrhagic events, differentiates between stages of bleeding, and guides timely interventions. Objective: To determine the incidence of intracranial haemorrhage in preterm neonates and correlate ultrasound finding with clinical profile in intracranial haemorrhage in preterm neonates and also to correlate gestational age with grades of IVH in preterm neonates.
Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Radiodiagnosis at M.G.M. Medical College & M.Y. Hospital, Indore, Madhya Pradesh, India, from July 2023 to June 2024. The study included 790 preterm neonates referred for transcranial ultrasound between January 2020 and October 2023. Transcranial ultrasound was performed using a7 – 15 Mhz probe, with images analyzed using Papille et al. classification for intraventricular hemorrhage.
Results: Out of total 790 preterm neonates on transcranial ultrasound, 161 (20.25%) preterm neonates were diagnosed to have IVH. The incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage in our study was 20.25%. Out of 161 preterm neonates, majority of preterm neonates 57.5% having grade 1 IVH were born between 31 - 32 weeks of gestation. Majority of preterm neonates 28.9% having grade 2 IVH were born between 29 - 30 weeks of gestation. Majority of preterm neonates 21% having grade 3 IVH were born between 29 – 30 weeks of gestation.
Conclusion:In conclusion, transcranial ultrasound (TUS) significantly enhances the evaluation of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in preterm neonates.
