NEUROTRAUMATOLOGY - ULTRASONIC EVALUATION OF THE CENTRAL-NERVOUS-SYSTEM

In this study we describe the technique of intraoperative ultrasound i maging of brain and spinal cord in trauma patients. The images are sho wn and their interpretation is discussed. This intraoperative imaging allows for localization of hematomas, bone fragments and indriven fore ign bodies (i.e., pieces of plastic, glass, metal, etc.). Disc materia l and bone fragments deep to the spinal cord can be localized with thi s technique. Real-time ultrasound can be used to guide instruments wit hin the brain and, thereby, provide dynamic guidance for removal of bo ne fragments and foreign bodies dynamically. In summary, intraoperativ e real-time ultrasonic imaging is of use to the neurosurgeon in the tr eatment of the neurotrauma patient.