Brain Ultrasound

Also known as: ultrasound of the brain, cranial ultrasound, head ultrasound.

What is brain ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a medical imaging test that uses sound waves emanating from a special machine to produce images of the body. The test is frequently used to produce images of infants before they are born. When ultrasound is used to generate images of the brain, this is known as a brain ultrasound.

What happens during the test?

Ultrasound is performed with a special medical tool called a transducer (sometimes referred to as a wand). The technician applies a gel lubricant to the end of the transducer, and then presses it against the skin in the area where images are needed within the body. The patient lies still while the technician runs the transducer over the skin in order to acquire the desired images. The exam may take up to 35 minutes.

Is any special preparation needed?

In most cases, no special preparation is needed for brain ultrasound. The patient may need to avoid certain medications or nicotine prior to the procedure to avoid restricting blood flow.

What are the risk factors?

There are virtually no risks related to brain ultrasound.

Reviewed by: Yadira L Martinez-Fernandez, MD

This page was last updated on: March 02, 2020 12:01 PM