High-resolution spinal sonography in infants.

High-resolution, real-time sonography of the spine revealed significant anatomic details in 29 infants, including nine with congenital malformations. Transverse sections were most useful for detecting osteochondral anomalies and for evaluating the symmetry of the spinal column and its soft-tissue contents. Longitudinal sections augmented the transverse sections and provided the most detailed anatomy of the cord and spinal arteries. A normal screening sonographic examination obviates ionizing radiation and invasive procedures, while an abnormal study implies the need for further, complementary diagnostic investigations.