How ultrasonography can contribute to diagnosis of craniosynostosis

• Published in: Neuro-chirurgie 2019-11, Vol.65 (5), p.228-231
• Main Authors: Proisy, M., Bruneau, B., Riffaud, L.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Bioengineering; Cranial Sutures - diagnostic imaging; Craniosynostoses - diagnostic imaging; Craniosynostosis; Human health and pathology; Humans; Imaging; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Life Sciences; Neurons and Cognition; Pediatrics; Reproducibility of Results; Skull; Suture; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Ultrasonography - methods; Ultrasound
• ISSN: 0028-3770; 1773-0619
• DOI: 10.1016/j.neuchi.2019.09.019

The aim of this article was to provide an overview of ultrasound (US) techniques for the investigation of cranial sutures in infants. We first describe a high-resolution sonography technique and its limitations. We then analyze the reliability, effectiveness and role of ultrasonography in routine practice using a PubMed literature review. Ten studies reported excellent correlations between ultrasonography and 3D-CT. Cranial US for the diagnosis of a closed suture had 100% sensitivity in 8 studies and 86–100% specificity before the age of 12 months. Negative findings mean imaging investigation can be stopped. If ultrasonography confirms diagnosis, neurosurgical consultation is required. Thus, 3D-CT can be postponed until appropriate before surgery. Cranial suture ultrasound is an effective and reliable technique for the diagnosis of craniosynostosis. It has many advantages: it is fast and non-irradiating, and no sedation is required. It should be used as first-line imaging in infants below the age of 8–12 months when craniosynostosis is clinically suspected.