Contrast Enhanced Ultrasound and Elastography of the Neonatal Brain

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to study changes in brain blood flow and tissue flexibility in newborn babies as they adjust to life outside the womb and during certain illnesses that might affect brain blood flow. The study focuses on newborns treated at Turku University Hospital's Neonatal Units, including those without suspected brain issues and those with conditions like asphyctic injury, stroke, or other brain-related diseases. The goal is to better understand brain circulation using advanced ultrasound techniques. The study uses a special contrast agent called SonoVue (sulfur hexafluoride) to improve ultrasound images of blood vessels and tissue perfusion without radiation or sedation. Ultrasound-guided shear-wave elastography (US-SWE) is also used to measure brain tissue elasticity. The contrast agent is given through existing veins, and ultrasound exams last about 20 minutes per day, repeated up to four times depending on the infant's condition and parental consent. The study includes four groups of infants based on their brain health status. Participants will undergo brain ultrasounds enhanced by contrast and elastography, as well as cardiac ultrasound. Researchers will assess brain blood flow and elasticity repeatedly over about 20 days. Safety monitoring occurs after contrast injections. The study analyzes ultrasound data with specialized software to compare brain perfusion in healthy and affected infants. The total participation period allows for multiple assessments to track changes in brain function and structure.

Neonatal Brain Ultrasound With CEUS and Elastography