What is Cranial USG?
Cranial ultrasound (USG), also called neurosonography, is a safe, painless, and radiation-free scan of the brain performed in newborns and young infants. It uses sound waves to produce real-time images of the brain structures through the soft spots (fontanelles) in the skull. At Curis Life Multispecialty Clinic in Andheri West, our expert radiologists perform cranial USG with high accuracy to help detect early brain conditions in babies. All cranial USG scans are done only by prior appointment to ensure careful handling and comfort of your baby.Why is Cranial USG Done?
Cranial USG helps doctors to:- Screen premature babies for intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH)
- Detect hydrocephalus (fluid accumulation in the brain)
- Evaluate brain infections, cysts, or congenital abnormalities
- Monitor brain growth and development in high-risk infants
- Follow up on birth injuries or trauma
When Doctors Recommend a Cranial USG
- Premature birth or low birth weight
- Seizures or abnormal neurological signs
- Enlarged head size (macrocephaly)
- Developmental delay
- Suspected bleeding, infection, or brain injury
Instructions to Follow Before a Cranial USG
- Feeding: Feed your baby just before the scan to keep them calm and still
- Clothing: Dress your baby in comfortable, easy-to-remove clothes
- Previous reports: Bring birth, NICU, or prior scan reports if available
- No fasting or special preparation is required
- Arrive 15 minutes early for pre-scan checks
How the Test is Done
- Your baby is gently positioned on the scan table
- A warm gel is applied on the soft spot (fontanelle)
- A small ultrasound probe is placed on the fontanelle to capture brain images
FAQs About Cranial USG
Is cranial USG safe for babies?
Yes, cranial USG is completely safe and radiation-free for newborns and infants.
When is the best time to do a cranial ultrasound?
It is usually done within the first few weeks of life, especially for premature or high-risk babies.
Does my baby need to be asleep during the scan?
No, but feeding your baby before the scan helps keep them calm.
What conditions can cranial USG detect?
It can detect bleeding, fluid build-up, cysts, brain infections, and birth injuries.
Is cranial USG painful for the baby?
No, it is completely painless and non-invasive.
