Ultrasound Imaging of Subarachnoidal Space in Newborn Infants

Ultrasound Imaging of the Subarachnoidal Space at the Lumbar Region in Preterm and Term Newborn Infants

Based on the ultrasound measurement of CSF/spinal cord ratio in neonates the investigators plan to define a normal range of CSF volume for 0-7 day old newborns. The investigators hypothise to be able to create an ultrasound measurement index/number to predict unsuccessful neonatalal LPs.

Based on the available literature the success rate of neonatal lumbar puncture (LP) is quite low (some articles reporting as low as 50% (unsuccessful LPs including dry taps and traumatic taps)).

Firstly, the investigators would like to set a normal range of CSF:spine ratio (representing the amount of CSF at the expected level of LP) based on the measurements in neonates of different gestational age and postnatal age with assessing ventricular index (VI) on cranial US.

In the next phase of the study the investigators plan to assess the subarachnoidal space/amount of CSF of those neonates whom need LP performed. The investigators hypothise to be able to create an ultrasound measurement index/number that would be able to predict unsuccessful LPs.

Inclusion Criteria: All neonates born at the Obstretrics and Gynecology Department, University of Szeged and all treated neonates at the Neonatal Unit, Pediatric Department, University of Szeged

Exclusion Criteria: Hemidynamical instability, Strict minimal handling (eg Pulmonary Hypertension, MAS etc), Total Body Coooling for HIE (Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy)