Advantages of coronal ultrasonography in evaluating the neonatal retroperitoneum

Good demonstration of retroperitoneal structures in the neonate can be obtained with real-time coronal ultrasonography. Advantages of coronal scanning include limited manipulation of the infant, less hindrance from monitoring devices or tubes when positioning the scanning probe, and improved visualization of retroperitoneal structures due to less interference by bowel gas. Retroperitoneal structures are displayed in conventional frontal anatomic relationships, which may facilitate recognition of renal ectopia and evaluation of abdominal masses. The authors' experience in evaluation of the neonatal retroperitoneum with ultrasonography is presented.