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

ABSTRACT

Cerebral ultrasound is the preferred modality for evaluating the infant brain, offering real-time bedside assessment without exposure to ionizing radiation. Microvascular imaging ultrasound (MVI), 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 developing brain's vasculature and hemodynamics. The utility of MVI has been investigated in various neurological conditions affecting neonates and infants, demonstrating its promise as a complementary tool to existing imaging modalities. By providing detailed, real-time images of the brain's microvasculature, 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 neurological conditions in the infant population.

ABBREVIATIONS: MVI = Microvascular Imaging.