An Atlas of Neonatal Neurovascular Imaging Anatomy as Depicted with Microvascular Imaging: The Intracranial Veins

SUMMARY: Cerebral ultrasound is the preferred technique for evaluating the infant brain, offering real-time bedside assessment without exposure to ionizing radiation. Microvascular imaging (MVI) ultrasound, an advanced Doppler technique, enables the visualization of microvascular slow-flow structures without the need for contrast agents. This innovative approach has the potential to provide valuable insights into the vasculature and hemodynamics of the developing brain. The utility of MVI has been investigated in various neurologic conditions affecting neonates and infants, demonstrating its promise as a complementary tool to existing imaging modalities. By providing detailed, real-time images of the microvasculature of the brain, MVI can aid in the early detection, monitoring, and understanding of cerebral pathologies. In this review, we aim to present a comprehensive atlas of cerebral venous structures as visualized with MVI, serving as a reference for future research in this field and promoting the adoption of this technique in clinical practice for improved diagnosis and management of neurologic conditions in the infant population.