Research aimed at studying brain structures makes it possible to detect diseases that can lead to severe developmental disorders and even death. One of the most common methods is echoencephalography (Echo EG).

Echo EG is an effective type of diagnosis carried out using ultrasound echography (ultrasound with a frequency of 0.5-15 MHz / s). The method was invented by Lars Leksell, who was involved in cranioscopy.

Sound waves penetrate the tissues of the body and are reflected from all surfaces (soft integuments of the head, skull bones, medulla, membrane, blood, cerebrospinal fluid). During the study, specialists see all the changes that occur in these tissues (foreign bodies, cysts, hematomas, abscesses, foci of reproduction, etc.).

Echoencephalography, together with such types of diagnostics as electroencephalogram, duplex, Doppler ultrasound of the vessels of the head and neck, form the basis for diagnosing pathologies of the nervous system.

Survey features

Echo EG is a diagnostic method, the essence of which lies in the action of ultrasound. With its help, doctors monitor the state of brain structures.

The study makes it possible to study the displacement of the median structures and recognize the severity of the violations. This helps the doctor prescribe the appropriate therapy.

Diagnosis is non-invasive, with its help, the accuracy of detecting the disease is increased by 40-50%.

They use diagnostics as an independent study or in conjunction with other types in order to recognize the true state of the brain.

Synonyms of echoencephalography in medicine are the terms:

• electroencephaloscopy;
• echoencephaloscopy (Echo ES);
• echoencephalogram. This concept, in fact, is not a synonym, but is a graphical display of ultrasound signals.

A method similar to Echo EG, but examining the heart, is echocardiography or, in short, an echogram.

Echo EG is a safe method, short and completely painless. Its essence lies in the fact that special equipment delivers ultra-frequency electric waves that set in motion plates applied to a person’s head.

Ultrasound propagates through the tissues of the brain and skull, and in those areas where disturbances are observed, the signals are echolocated. All waves are recorded by the equipment.

What does the monitor show? A graphic picture, on the basis of which experts draw a conclusion.

The value of the method lies in the fact that doctors can use it to examine individual brain structures, determine median pulsations when measuring ICP, and study the state of the pericerebral space.

The procedure is carried out in two modes:

1. Transmission. 2 sensors are superimposed on opposite sides of the head so that they converge on the same axis. One sensor sends a signal, the other receives it.
2. Emission. Only 1 sensor is used, which is installed in a place that contributes to a better result.

Indications and contraindications

Indications for echoencephalography in adults and children are as follows:

1. Injuries and bruises of the head with suspected concussion.
2. Nausea not associated with meals.
3. Noise in the ears, dizziness.
4. Attention deficit disorder, deterioration in performance, memory disorders.
5. Loss of coordination of movements, loss of consciousness.
6. Feeling of lack of oxygen.
7. Frequent headaches, sleep disturbances.
8. Neurotic reactions (stuttering, enuresis, tics, etc.).

Mostly Echo EG is used as a preliminary diagnostic method before CT or MRI. In some cases, echoencephalography allows you to replace these research methods, for example, due to the serious condition of the patient or the presence of contraindications.

An important advantage of this type of diagnostics is complete safety, the absence of side effects and age restrictions.

Echo EG is prescribed even for newborns and pregnant women in order to study the state of the brain in a child or expectant mother.

The only limitation to the study is open wounds of the head in the areas where the sensors are installed.

How is ECHO-EG of the brain performed?

Echoencephaloscopy of the brain is performed mainly in the horizontal position of the patient. During the examination, the head is in a stationary state, therefore, during the examination in young children, the help of parents is required.


During the procedure, a contact gel is applied to the scalp, which increases the accuracy of the study, after which the plates are installed.

Depending on the type of diagnosis, the doctor smoothly moves the sensors over the head. The whole procedure lasts no more than 10-15 minutes.

In M-mode

Echoencephalography in M-mode or one-dimensional is one of the quick and affordable ways to obtain the necessary information about the state of the brain and identify possible diseases and abnormalities.

Using this method, the state of intracranial pressure is assessed, the size of tumors and the degree of displacement of structures are determined.

When conducting a one-dimensional Echo EG, the sensors are installed above the external auditory canal, at the temple above the superciliary arch, 4-5 cm behind the ear vertical.

What does the diagnostic result look like? In the form of a graph of signals received from the inside of the head.

The one-dimensional method does not allow reliably diagnosing pathological processes. Often, after Echo EG in M-mode, CT or MRI is prescribed.

Two-dimensional method of echoencephalography

The 2D or ultrasound scan uses a single transducer that is placed in an area that allows the ultrasound waves to easily penetrate the bones of the skull.

For the appearance of a clear image, the sensor is shifted in different directions during the procedure. As a result, a flat picture appears on the monitor.

One of the varieties of two-dimensional Echo EG is neurosonography - an examination of the brain by ultrasound in children through the fontanel.

Preparation for the procedure

For echoencephalography, the patient does not need to prepare specially. This applies to both adults and young children. No special diet or drinking regime is required, and you do not need to come to the clinic on an empty stomach.

Diagnostics should be abandoned only if, during the examination, open wounds are found on the scalp in places where sensors are supposed to be installed. In such a situation, it is better to use other types of diagnostics, for example, MRI.

Since contact gel is abundantly applied to the patient's head before attaching the sensors, you need to take napkins or a towel with you so that you have something to wipe your head with.

Echoencephaloscopy in children

How are young children diagnosed? This is where parents need help. It is necessary to hold the child's head in a fixed position for some time.

Anesthesia or the use of any sedation is not required, since the study is absolutely painless.

In children, currents with a frequency of 2.6 MHz are used, since they easily penetrate the bones of the skull. The Echo EG method performed in infants is called neurosonography. It is carried out until the age of 1.5 years, when the fontanel has not yet grown.

Usually, the data obtained during the study is sufficient to identify the pathology in the child and prescribe adequate therapy.

Diagnostics for adults

Where to do Echo EG? The advantage of the method is that it can be carried out not only in specialized clinics, but also in an ambulance and even at the patient's home.

An adult patient or a child of a conscious age, during the diagnosis, is in a lying or sitting position. The doctor performing the examination stands behind the patient's head and applies sensors over the auricles.

When conducting a two-dimensional method, the sensor moves along the surface of the head. Curves are displayed on the monitor - an echoencephalogram.

To make an accurate diagnosis, ultrasound scanning is carried out several times, and the decoding of the indicators does not exceed several minutes.

The cost of diagnostics in a private clinic Sonomed is about 2500 rubles.

What pathologies does echo-EG show?

Most often, Echo EG is prescribed by a neurologist for the purpose of primary diagnosis in case of suspected brain pathologies in adults and children, as well as in emergency situations when the patient's life is in danger.
Deciphering indicators in adults and children allows you to identify:

• volume lesions of brain tissue;
• foci of hemorrhage and intracranial hematomas;
• location and size of tumors, cysts, foreign bodies;
• places of accumulation of pus in case of suspected brain abscess;
• control indicators of intracranial pressure;
• the dynamics of changes and the reasons for the deterioration of blood circulation in the vessels of the brain (with atherosclerosis, vegetovascular dystonia, ischemia, stroke, etc.);
• degree of hydrocephalus (dropsy).

Echoencephalography is indicative in identifying formations in the brain and determining their exact location. Doctors diagnose the following diseases in children and adults with the help of diagnostics.

Hydrocephalus (dropsy)

This term means an excess of cerebrospinal fluid in the cranial cavity. The disease develops due to increased production of cerebrospinal fluid and a violation of its circulation.

Signs of dropsy (hydrocephalus) include rapid enlargement of the head, downward displacement of the eyes, rounded pulsating protrusions on the unfused areas of the skull in newborns.

In adult patients, there is a violation of walking, balance disorders, dementia, urinary incontinence.

Hematomas and neoplasms

To make a diagnosis, the distances to the M-echo on the right and left sides are examined. In an adult patient, these distances are 65-80 mm and are approximately equal to each other (+/- 2 mm).

If large displacements are observed, specialists have reason to suspect malignant tumors. A displacement of 4-8 mm is an indication for neurosurgical intervention.

Moderate displacement (no more than 3 mm) indicates hematomas and edema with brain contusions. They usually disappear after a couple of days.

intracerebral hemorrhage

Non-traumatic cerebral hemorrhage is predominantly due to hypertension. There are also possible causes: atherosclerosis, blood diseases, inflammatory deformities of the vessels of the brain.

When hemorrhage on the Echo EG, a strong shift of the M-echo, echogenicity, multiple echoes are detected.

Meningoencephalitis

In this disease, inflammation of the gray matter and membranes of the central nervous system is observed. The nature of meningoencephalitis is viral and bacterial. Associated symptoms: nausea, headache, vomiting, chills, fever.

In the presence of pathology, a large shift of the M-echo is noticeable on the echoencephalogram. At coefficient values ​​of 7-8 mm, the beginning of the brain abscess process is suspected.

Deciphering indicators

Deciphering the results of the examination is carried out by a neurologist or laboratory specialists.

The main indicator is the same distance to the M-echo on both sides of the head. Normally, deviations should not exceed 1-2 mm (in children - 3 mm). In pathological processes, a shift of the M-echo is observed, the form and duration of the responses change.

When using echoencephalography, 3 types of signals (complexes) are characteristic that help to decipher the results:

1. primary complex. The signal is localized directly next to the sensor. It is formed by an ultrasonic wave upon reflection from the muscles, skin, fiber and upper structures of the brain.
2. Median. The signal obtained from the collision of ultrasound with structures located in the middle of the brain: transparent septum, brain stem, third ventricle, pineal gland, falciform process of the brain.
3. final complex. The signal comes from the lateral structures: the bones of the skull, soft tissues and the hard shell of the brain.

Deciphering the diagnostic results by an experienced specialist takes no more than a quarter of an hour.

How is ES of the head different from MRI, CT and EEG

There are a number of differences between diagnostics aimed at studying the structures of the brain. What is the difference between Echo REG, the difference from EEG and other types of diagnostics, see the table:

Diagnostic Name	Short description	Difference from Echo EG
Electroencephalography (EEG)	The study of the activity of the brain by recording the bioelectric potentials of its different departments..	It is carried out to study the brain by recording its bioelectrical activity. It is performed to determine the frequency, amplitude, rhythm of the waves of brain biopotentials.
Reencephalography (REG)	A method for assessing cerebral circulation and checking vascular tone in any part of the brain.	Allows you to study the state of the vessels of the brain and their functional parameters.
Magnetic resonance, computer, positron emission tomography (MRI, CT, PET CT)	These studies allow you to get a three-dimensional image of any parts of the human body with high contrast.	These methods are mainly aimed at identifying neoplasms and deformities in brain tissues. So, MRI is better to use in the presence of small neoplasms, since Echo EG is not too strong in identifying small pathological foci.

Echoencephalography(EchoEG)- a method of studying intracranial structures using ultrasound. The method consists in the fact that with the help of a generator of high-frequency electrical oscillations, a piezoelectric plate applied to the head is brought into an oscillatory state.

Arising mechanical ultrasonic signals propagate inside the head, at the boundaries of media that differ in physical properties, they are reflected and partially returned back. By the moment of sending and the moment of return, it is possible to determine the distance to the structure that reflected the signal.

Normal EchoEG when the piezoelectric sensor is located above the auricle, it contains the following main signals:

–– initial complex- corresponds to the sent ultrasonic signal;

–– M-echo- the transparent septum, the third ventricle and the pineal gland take part in the formation of this signal - it has the main diagnostic value;

–– final complex- reflection from the opposite wall of the skull.

Certain additional information is carried by the so-called lateral echoes, which are registered between M-echo and initial and final complexes as a result of reflection from the walls of the ventricles and some other formations. In amplitude, they are smaller than other signals.

Normal distance to M-echo on the right and left sides should be the same (no more than 1.5-2 mm), which corresponds to the symmetry of the brain.

With various cerebral lesions there is a shift M-echo. It occurs in the case of volumetric processes (tumor, hematoma, etc.), with the direction of displacement indicating the side of the lesion. Distance to M-echo on the localization side of the volumetric process will be greater than on the opposite side. The degree of displacement correlates with the size of the pathological focus.

intracerebral tumors cause more displacement than extracerebral ones. Malignant neoplasms are accompanied by the greatest displacement. With brain contusions, a slight (up to 3 mm) and transient displacement as a result of cerebral edema can be observed.

Are important EchoEG studies in patients with disorders of cerebral circulation. Stable and large displacement M-echo usually noted with intracerebral hemorrhages, insignificant and unstable - with ischemic strokes. In hemorrhagic strokes, diagnostically significant are lateral echoes as a reflection directly from pathological formations, that is, at the border of the blood - the medulla.

After an injury, an inflammatory process, a stroke, especially of a hemorrhagic nature, the M-echo may shift towards the affected hemisphere, due to a decrease in its volume during the period of scarring and resorption. As a result of traumatic, inflammatory, vascular lesions of the brain, lateral echo signals may occur due to the formation of cysts and calcifications.

Many chronic brain diseases are accompanied by liquorodynamic disorders that have a negative impact on the protective and adaptive mechanisms of the CNS.

Data EchoEG allow to diagnose internal hydrocephalus, whose characteristic features are splitting M-echo two teeth with their discrepancy more than 7-8 mm from each other, as well as the appearance of a large number of additional lateral echo signals.

Comparative analysis of results EchoEG studies in the process of dynamic monitoring at various stages of the rehabilitation period, it provides important information about the degree and nature of brain damage, its compensatory capabilities. Echoencephalography data can be used in the system of VTE, employment and determination of rehabilitation measures for disabled people as objective criteria for assessing the general functional state CNS.

Medical rehabilitation / Ed. V. M. Bogolyubov. Book I. - M., 2010. S. 27-28.

EchoES) is a method with which you can fully examine the state of the brain. The study is carried out quickly and does not harm a person.

Due to this examination, it is possible to identify serious diseases of the brain and disorders in the functioning of the nervous system, including in various forms.

Features of diagnostics

Echoencephaloscopy is a non-invasive procedure that allows for a complete diagnosis of the brain for abnormalities. Diagnosis is based on the reflection of ultrasonic waves from different parts of the brain of the head.

During this procedure, ultrasound is applied with a wave frequency level of 0.5-15 MHz / s. Waves with this frequency penetrate freely through the structure of body tissues and are reflected from any surfaces that are located at the boundaries of tissues with various constituent elements - blood, medulla, cerebrospinal fluid, bone tissue of the skull, soft tissues of the head.

During this study, a specialist places special ultrasonic sensors on the area of ​​​​projections of the median structures of the brain of the head, which further ensure the recording and determination of reflected signals.

The process of this study takes an average of about 20 minutes. But during this period, due to the processing of computer research, it is possible to determine the symmetrical position of the median structures, and the dimensional parameters of the ventricles of the brain are determined.

So, if serious changes are observed in the brain, then the study will show problems through the lack of symmetry and the shift of signals.

What allows you to identify the diagnosis

M Echo is used to examine the state of the brain and possible pathological disorders in this area.

During the examination with the help of ECHO of the head, certain reflected signals are received, which differ depending on the state of the brain.

For example, if the skin and adipose tissue are examined, then there will be one signal, if neoplasms are detected, namely, then there will be a different signal, if healthy tissue, then there will be a third type of signal. As a result, a certain image is created on the monitor screen.

In addition, this procedure allows you to identify circulatory disorders in the vessels and arteries. When diagnosing, the doctor can accurately determine the state of blood flow in the vessels of the brain, the disorder of which can cause serious diseases.

With the help of echoencephaloscopy, the presence of the following pathologies can be determined:

• changes in the structures of the brain;
• tumors;
• cysts;
• neoplasms;
• circulatory disorders in the vessels and arteries of the brain.

For adults, this procedure is prescribed for suspicion of the following pathological syndromes and conditions:

Also, this procedure is used in the diagnosis of disorders in the brain area in children under 1.5 years old, when their fontanel is not yet completely overgrown. With the help of the procedure, you can make a complete examination of the state of the child's brain.

When diagnosed in childhood, this procedure is also performed under the following conditions:

• during diagnosed hydrocephalus to assess the condition;
• with inhibition of physical development;
• at ;
• with increased tone of muscle fibers;
• to evaluate the effectiveness of therapeutic treatment for diseases of a neuralgic nature;
• during enuresis and;
• various tics of a nervous nature;
• with bruises and head injuries.

Echoencephaloscopy is an absolutely safe procedure, it has no contraindications. It can be used even for pregnant women and for children of different ages.

The course of the procedure

Echoencephaloscopy does not require additional preparation. Before it is not required to drink a lot of water or a day before it to follow a certain diet.

If this diagnosis is made to a small child, then the presence of parents is necessary so that they can hold his head.

This method of research is completely safe, but during its implementation it is necessary to change the position of the head several times.

Before Echo-ES is performed, the patient must take a supine position. In rare cases, this diagnosis is carried out in a sitting position. The entire procedure takes from 10 to 30 minutes.

Echoencephaloscopy is carried out in two modes:

1. Emission Type Single Sensor Mode. This sensor is installed in those areas where ultrasound can quickly and easily pass through the bone tissue of the skull to the brain. In order to get a clearer and more accurate informative image, the sensor sometimes has to be moved.
2. Transmission type mode. During this mode, two sensors are used. They are placed on different parts of the head, but the main thing is that they are on the same axis. The most suitable part for installing the sensor is the middle line of the head.

Deciphering the results

Ready brain echoencephaloscopy data are based on three main components of the echo signal:

1. Initial Complex. It is formed by displaying a signal from the integument of the head and brain using an ultrasonic sensor.
2. M-echo. This indicator plays a role in diagnosing the reflection of a signal from the 3rd ventricle of the brain, the epiphysis, the transparent septum and brain structures of the head with a medial type.
3. End Complex. This is an ultrasonic signal that is reflected from the meninges and skull bones from the opposite side.

In a healthy state, the structures of the brain of the median type should be located at the level of the median plane, the level of distance between the structures of the M-echo on both sides is the same.

If there is a tumor formation, hematomas, abscesses and other similar neoplasms, then the level of the distance to the M-echo will be asymmetrical. This is due to the fact that the unaffected part of the cerebral hemisphere is slightly displaced. This displacement is considered the main symptom of volumetric formations.

During hydrocephalus, there will be an increase in the volume of the lateral ventricles, as well as the parameters of the third ventricle. With echoencephaloscopy, this disorder is characterized by high-amplitude signals in the intervals between the initial, final complexes and the M-echo. Along with this, signals from the walls of the ventricles can be observed.

For residents of Moscow

Addresses of clinics where echoencephaloscopy can be done in Moscow at affordable prices:

• « Multidisciplinary center SM-Clinic» at the address m. Tekstilshchiki, Volgogradsky prospect, 42k12, the cost of the procedure is from 2630 rubles.
• « Family doctor» at metro station Novoslobodskaya, 1st Miusskaya street, 2с3. The price of the procedure is from 1200 rubles.
• « Be healthy» at the address metro Frunzenskaya, Komsomolsky prospect, 28. The cost of the procedure is from 2850 rubles.

Echoencephalography (Echo-EG) one-dimensional

It is used to assess the state of the brain in cases of suspected mass formation, hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension in children of any age. The diagnostic capabilities of echography in general and Echo-EG in particular are based on the ability of ultrasound to reflect from the boundaries of media with different densities. The resulting reflected echo signals are displayed on the screen of the cathode ray tube in the form of peaks, the amplitude of which is directly dependent on the magnitude of the reflection and, consequently, on the density of the tissues.

Newborns and children under 2 years old can be examined using a 2.64 MHz transducer, since their cranial bone transmits ultrasound quite freely. For older children, lower frequency transducers are used.

There are three main positions of the sensor: I - above the external auditory canal (projection site of the III ventricle and epiphysis), II - in the temporal region at the lateral edge of the superciliary arch (projection site of the transparent septum), III - 4-5 cm posterior to the ear vertical ( projection site of the epiphysis).

The main anatomical structures of the brain that reflect ultrasound are the falciform processes, the interhemispheric fissure, the walls of the III and lateral ventricles, and the transparent septum. The median ones are the interhemispheric fissure, falciform process, III ventricle and transparent septum. The method is based on determining the reflected signal from these structures, the so-called M-echo, and on determining the distance to it when measuring from both sides. The displacement of the M-echo by more than 2 mm makes it possible to suspect the presence of a volumetric formation in the hemisphere from the side of the displacement.

When examining a patient, the sensor is initially installed on one side of the head at point I. A group of constant echo signals appears on the scan line on the screen: I - the initial complex emanating from the skin and skull bones adjacent to the sensor; II - the median echo coming from the III ventricle and adjacent structures (often it has a split in the apex or is completely moved apart, which depends on the width of the III ventricle and the resolution of the apparatus); III - the echo signal comes from the final complex, i.e. from the back of the skull bone in relation to the sensor. The impulses reflected from the bone have a flat top. In this case, the shape of the echo signal from the median structures must remain sharp, which is achieved by adjusting the gain knob. With a slight upward tilt of the sensor between the end complex and the M-echo, another, fairly constant, echo signal from the lateral ventricle occurs - the ventricular echo.

Upon receipt of a stable picture on the screen, measurements are taken. First, the distance from the initial to the final complex is determined, which represents the internal size of the skull; then - from the initial complex to the median and ventricular echo signals. All measurements are taken on both sides. Normally, an M-echo displacement of up to 2 mm is allowed.

The degree of dilatation of the ventricular system (in the region of the lateral horns) can be judged by the distance to the ventricular echo (ventricular index). The normal ventricular index is between 1.8-2.0.

Since the nature of the median echo signal is mainly associated with the third ventricle, when two separate impulses are received, an idea of ​​​​the width of this structure can be made. The measurement is taken from the leading edge of one echo to the leading edge of another. Normally, the width of the third ventricle is 4.4 + 2.5 mm in the neonatal period and up to 5.5 + 2 mm by the 1st year of life.

When the sensor is located at points I and II, the initial and final complexes and the median echo signal are also recorded, but in the first case it comes from a transparent septum, and in the second - from the epiphysis. The measurement of the distance from these structures and the calculation of their possible displacement is carried out in the same way as described above.

The assessment of the pulsation of the median echo signal has a certain diagnostic value, since it is believed that there is some relationship between the amplitude of the pulsation and the presence of intracranial hypertension. The M-echo ripple is quantified as a percentage. Thus, the maximum value of the pulse amplitude is taken as 100%, and its minimum value is determined by the value of the pulsation amplitude. Normally, the latter should not exceed 25%. If the amplitude of the pulsation does not exceed 50%, then we can talk about a mild degree of intracranial hypertension; if the amplitude of the pulsation is from 50 to 75%, then they speak of an average degree of intracranial hypertension, and if it is more than 75%, then a pronounced degree. The absence of pulsation is a sign of pronounced intracranial hypertension. It should be noted that some authors deny the reliability of the data obtained with one-dimensional echoEG, which would make it possible to judge the presence or absence of intracranial hypertension.

Headache is a symptom that can accompany a large number of pathologies. It can be both short-term and permanent, preventing a person from doing their usual things. With such pain, it is necessary to contact a neurologist to find out the cause of its appearance. Sometimes this symptom warns of dangerous diseases developing in the brain. In some cases, pain is not a sign of severe disorders of the nervous system. To find out the cause of its occurrence, a special study is carried out - echoencephalography of the brain. Thanks to it, you can find out whether a person has structural disorders or not.

Echoencephalography of the brain - what is it?

To assess the state of the brain, various examination methods are carried out. Among them - computer and magnetic resonance imaging, the study of electrical potentials (EEG). As in many medical fields, ultrasound is used in neurology. It includes echoencephalography of the brain. In young children, this examination is called neurosonography (NSG). Despite the emergence of new technologies, this method is actively prescribed by doctors. This is due to the fact that echoencephalography is considered a safe and non-invasive study of brain structures. It allows diagnosing many neurological diseases. In addition, it is often combined with a Doppler study of the vessels of the head. Thanks to these methods, it is possible to judge not only the state of the brain, but also its blood supply.

Indications for echoencephalography

This study is quite informative, as it allows you to identify a wide range of neurological pathologies. Echoencephalography of the brain is one of the imaging methods based on the ability to perceive ultrasonic waves. Both neuropathologists and general practitioners can prescribe this study. The indications for EchoEG are the patient's complaints, which may indicate pathologies of the brain. The most common reason for the procedure is headache. In some cases, this symptom rarely bothers the patient and appears only with mental stress or changes in weather conditions. In others, pain haunts a person constantly, making it impossible to work and rest. In both cases, an EchoEG should be performed, since even the rare appearance of symptoms sometimes indicates a severe pathology of the brain. Other indications for ultrasound examination of the head are sleep disturbance, memory disturbance, tinnitus, head bruises.

In what cases is echoencephalography performed in children?

In children, it is one of the best methods of neurological examination. First of all, this is due to the absence of contraindications, as well as the painlessness of the procedure. In addition, EchoEG does not require special training and is an informative method. Indications for its implementation are the same as for adults. In addition, there are other complaints that are usually inherent in the children's population. Among them:

1. growth retardation. The process may be associated with a violation of hormonal regulation, which is carried out in the brain.
2. Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. This disease is psychological in nature, but structural disorders can also be its cause. This syndrome is manifested by disobedience, lack of concentration, academic failure, defiant behavior. Most often diagnosed at the age of 5-8 years.
3. Enuresis - nocturnal urination.
4. When making a diagnosis of hydrocephalus, EchoEG is necessary to assess the severity of the pathology.

In newborns and infants, neurosonography is performed. The difference of this study is that it allows you to fully view the structures of the brain. This is ensured by the fact that young patients have open areas of the skull - fontanelles. Indications for NSG are sleep disturbance, sudden screaming, holding the breath, profuse regurgitation. In general, this study does not differ from echoencephalography. The mechanism of operation of the devices and the technique for performing both methods are identical.

Echoencephalography Options

There are 2 types of EchoEG. They have the same readings, but are slightly different from each other. Echoencephalography in M-mode is designed to determine such pathologies as increased intracranial pressure, formation in the head tumor). This method allows you to visualize pathological changes, but does not make it possible to diagnose them with accuracy.

To examine the structures of the brain in more detail, one-dimensional echoencephalography is performed. Doctors recommend this study for suspected intracranial hypertension, hydrocephalus in children. This variant of the procedure makes it possible to evaluate the following parameters: the size of the brain ventricles, the magnitude of the M-echo displacement, ventricular index, etc.

Research technique in children

Parents often ask questions: can brain echoencephalography cause side effects in children, where is the examination preferable, how to prepare the baby? You should know that this visualization method is completely harmless. It does not require special training and can be performed at any time of the day. If EchoEG is necessary for a small child, then parents are asked to hold their head in a certain position for several minutes. The study is carried out in 2 stages:

1. Transmission. It is performed as follows: 2 sensors are installed on the surface of the head, they must be located along 1 axis from opposite sides. The first probe sends out a sound signal, which is transmitted to the second instrument. Thanks to this, such an indicator as the middle line of the head is calculated.
2. Emission stage. Further examination is carried out using one sensor, which is installed in the place where the signal is best heard. To examine all the structures, the doctor gradually moves the device over the surface of the head.

What changes can be seen with echoencephalography of the brain?

Due to the two stages of EchoEG, various brain disorders can be detected. First of all, the doctor determines the midline. Its deviation causes a displacement of structures, as a result of which part of the gray and white matter can be compressed. Only echoencephalography of the brain in children can quickly and safely diagnose this change. The norm of this indicator, however, does not always indicate the absence of diseases.

Therefore, regardless of the location of the midline, the doctor proceeds to the second stage. Thanks to him, you can identify hydrocephalus - the appearance of excess fluid in the ventricles of the brain or its membranes. Also, by moving the sensor, it is possible to notice volumetric formations. The study allows you to evaluate the substance of the brain from both sides. The clearest signal is the sound waves coming from the median structures. They are called M-echo and are of great importance for diagnosis.

What diseases can be identified?

Echoencephalography of the brain is prescribed for closed craniocerebral injuries, as well as complaints from the patient or his parents. Through this study, the following violations can be identified:

1. Hydrocephalus. This symptom is more common in children, but can also occur in adults.
2. Increased intracranial pressure. May appear after head trauma, concussion. In some cases, intracranial hypertension has no prerequisites. The main symptoms of this pathology are dizziness, nosebleeds.
3. Tumors of the brain.
4. Hematomas.
5. Abscesses and cysts located in the substance of the brain.
6. pituitary adenoma.

When combined with Doppler EchoEG, pathologies such as stroke and dyscirculatory encephalopathy (chronic ischemia) can be diagnosed.

in children: decoding

When reading the results of the study, the M-echo, the initial and final complex are evaluated. Pathological changes are diagnosed when the midline is displaced by more than 2 mm. They can be detected by echoencephalography of the brain. The interpretation of the results is carried out by a specialist in accordance with the following standards:

1. The M-echo should be in the middle, i.e. MD = MS. The splitting of the signal emanating from it indicates intracranial hypertension. The limit of M-echo pulsation normally ranges from 10 to 30%. An increase in this value indicates hypertensive-hydrocephalic syndrome.
2. The average sales index is normally 3.9-4.1.
3. An M-echo shift of 5 mm upward indicates a hemorrhagic stroke, downward - about ischemia.
4. Normally, there should be indices of the III ventricle (22-24) and the medial wall (4-5).

Advantages and disadvantages of this study

Like any study, EchoEG has advantages and disadvantages. This method appeared a long time ago, therefore, according to some doctors, it is somewhat outdated. This is due to the large number of new devices for studying the brain, which give a clearer picture of the pathological processes. For example, magnetic resonance imaging allows you to see the tissue in layers and identify the smallest formations. Nevertheless, echoencephalography remains a common diagnostic method, as it has its advantages. First of all, this method is safe. Therefore, it is often prescribed to children and pregnant women. Also, it does not require large costs, special training and time. Thanks to this, many diseases of the brain can be excluded.