Pediatric Imaging Studies

Pediatric Imaging: What Parents Should Know

We understand that medical tests can make kids (and parents) nervous. We do everything we can to keep your child comfortable.

• Comfort items: Your child may bring a favorite toy or blanket (no metal).
• Parents present: You can usually stay with your child during the test. Exceptions include if you’re pregnant (except for ultrasounds), have certain metal implants (for MRI), or if your child is under anesthesia or having an interventional procedure.
• No siblings in the room: Please don’t bring other children to the appointment.

Common Imaging Tests

• X-ray- Quick, painless pictures of bones and organs. Your child will wear a protective apron and need to stay still for a moment.
• CT (CAT Scan): This is a detailed X–ray picture inside the body. The machine looks like a big doughnut. Some children may need medicine to relax or a special liquid/IV contrast for clearer images. Most scans take under 10 minutes.
• Fluoroscopy- Live X-ray images to watch organs in motion. Prep depends on the test (for example, sometimes an empty stomach is needed).
• Ultrasound- Uses sound waves, no radiation. A warm gel and a small wand are placed on the skin. Some abdominal or pelvic ultrasounds require fasting or drinking fluids first.
• MRI – Uses magnets and radio waves (not radiation) for detailed images. Done at Tallahassee Memorial Hospital in a child-friendly unit. Takes about 45 minutes. Children may need anesthesia to help them stay still.
• Orthopedic Injections – Minimally invasive injections to relieve pain or highlight joints for imaging.
• Nuclear Medicine – Small amounts of radioactive material are used to show organ function. It may be swallowed, inhaled, or given by IV. Exposure is very low.
• PET/CT Scan- Combines nuclear medicine and CT to show both structure and function. Takes about 45 minutes after the medicine is absorbed.