Pediatric ultrasound (sonogram)

Q: Why is my child having a pediatric ultrasound (sonogram) instead of an X-ray?

An ultrasound is a good diagnostic tool for children because there is no radiation involved. The ultrasound examination can be performed without your child having to be sedated, to hold completely still or to hold their breath.

Q: Will my child feel any pain with the pediatric ultrasound (sonogram)?

While ultrasounds are typically pain-free, if the patient is experiencing pain in the imaging area of interest, there may be some discomfort with slight pressure of the transducer, which is sometimes necessary to visualize anatomy.

Q: Can I stay with my child during the pediatric ultrasound (sonogram)?

You are welcome to stay with your child during the ultrasound.

Q: How long does a pediatric ultrasound (sonogram) take?

Exams can take up to 1 hour, sometimes longer, depending on the cooperation of the patient and the complexity/type of the exam.

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What is a pediatric ultrasound (sonogram)?

Ultrasound imaging, also called sonography or sono, is a common diagnostic medical procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce dynamic images (sonograms).

What are the benefits of a pediatric ultrasound (sonogram)?

Pediatric ultrasounds can be used to diagnose conditions in organs and blood vessels, and to clearly see many parts of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, pelvis, scrotum, and thyroid.

A pediatric ultrasound is a great diagnostic tool for children because there is no exposure to radiation and there is usually no need for sedation or general anesthesia.

What can I expect with a pediatric ultrasound (sonogram)?

Depending on the part of the body being examined, the technologist may ask your child to change into a gown or remove clothing to expose the area to be examined. The technologist will then ask your child to lie on the exam bed and, if needed, will give your child a blanket to keep warm. Then the technologist will turn off the lights in the room. This will make the pictures on the computer screen easier to see.

The ultrasound machine looks like a large computer on wheels. A transducer, a small hand-held instrument, is attached to the machine.

The technologist will put a warm lotion on the transducer and also on the part of your child's body that is going to have the ultrasound. The lotion is clear, easily removable with water and does not stain clothing.

The technologist will glide the transducer over the parts of the body that the doctor needs to see.