Current evidence is that cUS imaging using modern machines, probes, a variety of acoustic windows and sequential scanning at optimal times gives high-quality images that are diagnostically accurate. Issues of teaching, supervision and experience for both paediatric and radiological staff need to be addressed and collaboration between paediatric and radiology departments is needed to improve protocols, image quality and interpretation. Whilst MRI does have advantages over cUS and clear clinical indications, especially in the term-born infant, cUS facilitates early bedside diagnosis and monitoring of pathology in a way that is relatively easy and not disturbing and safe for the newborn infant. Awareness of the timing of injury and its manifestation on cUS are vital and routine scanning must be of high-quality with maximal coverage of the whole brain, and appropriate to the population of infants under review.
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