1.
J Ultrasound Med
; 32(12): 2191-7, 2013 Dec.
Article
in English
| MEDLINE
| ID: mdl-24277903
ABSTRACT
Our aim with this study was to develop a user-friendly method for pediatric sonographically guided lumbar punctures so that we can visualize intrathecal anatomy, confirm intrathecal injection at the time of injection, and, most importantly, avoid ionizing radiation to a child's already radiosensitive pelvis. Sonographically guided lumbar puncture was prospectively performed in children aged 7 weeks to 16 years. All attempts (n = 9) were successful. We were able to identify relevant anatomy (including the conus in children 10 years and younger), confirm intrathecal injection, visualize intrathecal hematoma, and avoid radiation. Sonography is a promising modality for image-guided lumbar punctures without radiation in children.