What is Transfontanelle Ultrasound?
One of the most important imaging methods used to assess brain development in infants is the transfontanelle ultrasound. This method is performed by sending ultrasound waves through the openings in the skull called fontanelles, which have not yet closed. These areas, known as soft spots in babies, allow visualization of the internal structures of the brain because the bone has not fully developed.
Transfontanelle ultrasound does not involve radiation and is completely harmless. Therefore, it is the most frequently preferred first imaging method for examining the brain structure of newborns and infants. It provides highly reliable results to determine whether there are developmental issues in the baby.
Why is Transfontanelle Ultrasound Requested?
Transfontanelle ultrasound is requested when an infant’s head circumference grows abnormally fast, there is neurological developmental delay, abnormalities in muscle tone, or seizures. It is also recommended for regular monitoring in premature babies, as they have a higher risk of intracranial bleeding.
Ultrasound is particularly important for infants who experienced birth trauma, had infections such as meningitis, or have a family history of hereditary brain anomalies. Early detection of issues allows timely intervention to protect the baby’s health.
How is Transfontanelle Ultrasound Performed?
During the examination, the baby is placed on their back. A small pillow or towel is placed under the head to stabilize it. Special ultrasound gel is applied to the fontanel area, which helps transmit sound waves more effectively and enhances image clarity.
The ultrasound probe, called a transducer, is placed on the soft spot, and images are taken from different angles. The baby does not feel any pain during the procedure. It typically takes 10 to 20 minutes. Performing the scan in a quiet environment, preferably when the baby is sleeping after feeding, yields the best results as the baby remains still.
What Conditions Can Be Evaluated with Transfontanelle Ultrasound?
Transfontanelle ultrasound plays an important role in diagnosing many conditions in infants. It is the first-choice method for detecting brain hemorrhage in premature babies. It can also visualize increased fluid in the brain (hydrocephalus), congenital brain anomalies, cysts, vascular abnormalities, and tumors.
It can detect brain damage after infections such as meningitis. White matter injury, developmental disorders, and conditions affecting fluid balance in the brain can also be detected early with transfontanelle ultrasound.
Where is the Transfontanelle Area?
The fontanelle is the soft opening in a baby’s skull that has not yet closed after birth. The largest fontanelle is the anterior fontanelle, which is the main area used for transfontanelle ultrasound. It is located between the forehead and the top of the head and closes between 12 and 18 months after birth.
There are also lateral and posterior fontanelles, but the anterior fontanelle provides the most detailed information due to its size. These openings allow ultrasound waves to reach the brain tissue without being blocked by the skull.
Who Should Perform Transfontanelle Ultrasound?
This examination is performed by a radiologist. However, it is commonly conducted in pediatric clinics or neonatal intensive care units. The radiologist analyzes the images and prepares a detailed report. The report is then evaluated by the pediatrician or pediatric neurologist following the baby.
This process is multidisciplinary, as the results are interpreted alongside the baby’s clinical condition, developmental findings, and other tests.
What is Examined in Transfontanelle Ultrasound?
The internal structures of the brain, fluid-filled spaces called ventricles, symmetry of brain tissue, and blood vessels are examined in detail. Brain hemorrhages, increased fluid, cysts, or tumors can be detected. White matter development and potential damage are also visualized.
It provides reliable results for detecting hydrocephalus, intraventricular hemorrhage, congenital brain anomalies, and developmental disorders.
Precautions Before Transfontanelle Ultrasound
No special preparation is required. Whether the baby is hungry or full does not affect the procedure. However, it is preferable to perform the examination when the baby is calm, such as after feeding or during sleep.
Metal accessories, earrings, or other items should be removed prior to the procedure. No medications need to be stopped, and no special diet is required.
When Are Transfontanelle Ultrasound Results Ready?
After the examination, the images are evaluated by a radiologist. In most centers, results are prepared on the same day, but in busy locations, it may take a few days.
In urgent cases, the report can be prepared faster and sent immediately to the pediatrician, allowing treatment to begin without delay.
Transfontanelle Ultrasound Prices 2026
Prices vary depending on the center. In public hospitals and under SGK coverage, the procedure is less costly, while private health facilities’ prices depend on the quality of the device, pricing policies, and additional services.
As of 2026, transfontanelle ultrasound prices range from approximately 1,500 TL to 9,000 TL. University hospitals generally charge less, while private centers with fast reporting and advanced technology may charge more.
Why is Transfontanelle Ultrasound Performed?
Transfontanelle ultrasound is performed to examine the infant’s brain structure. It is important for early detection of congenital anomalies, brain hemorrhages, hydrocephalus (excess cerebrospinal fluid), and other issues. It is especially preferred for routine monitoring in premature infants, whose brain vessels are more delicate and at higher risk of bleeding. Early intervention is facilitated by transfontanelle ultrasound.
What Can Be Seen in Brain Ultrasound?
Brain ultrasound can reveal brain tissue structure, fluid-filled spaces called ventricles, white matter damage, intracranial hemorrhages, and cysts. It can also detect increased brain fluid (hydrocephalus). Developmental anomalies and suspected tumors can also be identified.
How Long Does Brain Ultrasound Take?
The examination usually takes 10–20 minutes. However, if the baby is moving or detailed imaging is required, it may take longer. The baby does not feel any pain during the procedure.
Does Transvaginal Ultrasound Hurt?
Transvaginal ultrasound is generally painless for most women. A thin, specially designed probe is inserted into the vagina. Slight pressure may be felt, but it usually does not cause pain. Sensation may vary depending on vaginal sensitivity, muscle tension, and prior gynecological experiences.
What Does Ultrasound Show?
Ultrasonography is a method that uses high-frequency sound waves to image internal organs. Abdominal organs, thyroid, breast tissue, brain, blood vessels, uterus and ovaries in women, and testes in men can be examined in detail. During pregnancy, fetal development, organs, and placenta are also assessed using ultrasound.
Can Down Syndrome Be Detected with Detailed Ultrasound?
Detailed ultrasound can reveal some markers of Down syndrome in the baby, such as increased nuchal translucency, heart structure differences, and short bones in hands and feet. However, these findings are not definitive; they only indicate suspicion. Confirmatory genetic tests (amniocentesis, CVS, NIPT) are required for diagnosis.
How Are Brain Tumors Diagnosed?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the most reliable method for definitive diagnosis of brain tumors. CT can also be used, but MRI provides more detail. In some cases, biopsy and pathological examination are required. Ultrasound serves as a supportive tool in infants or special situations.
Is Detailed Ultrasound Necessary?
Detailed ultrasound during pregnancy, especially between 18–23 weeks, is one of the most important screenings. It evaluates organ development, heart structure, brain and spine, and limb measurements. It is strongly recommended for routine prenatal care, as many congenital anomalies can be detected early.
Can Virgins Have Transvaginal Ultrasound?
Transvaginal ultrasound is generally not performed on virgin women. Abdominal ultrasound is preferred. In special cases, the probe may be used superficially without fully inserting it into the vagina, which does not damage the hymen. Most doctors, however, prefer abdominal or rectal ultrasound for virgin patients.
Who is Transvaginal Ultrasound Performed For?
It is used for evaluating menstrual irregularities, ovarian cysts, uterine polyps and fibroids, infertility investigations, and early pregnancy assessments. It is also frequently used to assess uterine thickness after menopause and is one of the most common methods in gynecological diagnosis and treatment.
Can Down Syndrome Be Detected with Color Ultrasound?
Color ultrasound is used to evaluate fetal heart vessels and blood flow. Some markers of Down syndrome can be indirectly observed, but it cannot provide a definitive diagnosis. Genetic testing is needed for confirmation.
How Much Does Detailed Ultrasound Cost?
Prices vary by center. It may be free in public hospitals under SGK coverage. In private hospitals, as of 2026, prices range from approximately 1,500 TL to 4,000 TL, depending on the technology used and the scope of the report.
Is Detailed Ultrasound Available in Public Hospitals?
Yes, detailed ultrasound is available in public hospitals. However, not every hospital may have the necessary equipment. It is generally available in university hospitals and training-research hospitals. When covered by SGK, no additional fee is charged.
