NEUROIMAGING

Abstract

Availability of neuroimaging facilities has made the evaluation of neurological problems easier in the last few decades. Computed tomography scan of brain is the initial choice in very sick children because of its wider availability, faster turnaround time and lower cost. Cranial ultrasonography is an important modality in the follow up of infants in the postnatal period, particulary in the evaluation of hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, subependymal-periventricular-intraventricular hemorrhage and hydrocephalus. It is used as a point of care investigation by neonatologists. Absence of radiation exposure and precision makes magnetic resonance imaging the modality of choice in emergency situations. But the disadvantages are the need for sedation or brief anaesthesia, longer procedural time and cost. But benefits outweigh the disadvantages and additional tools like Magnetic resonance angiography, Magnetic resonance venography and Magnetic resonance spectroscopy add precious information for further evaluation.