Exam Overview:
Paediatric (Child) Ultrasound is a common examination at Ultrasound Dimensions. We understand the anxiety that our little patients can experience and we are here to make the ultrasound assessment as pleasant as possible.

Monica Healy, our clinical specialist has worked at SickKids in Toronto Ontario, one of the largest paediatric sonography centres in North America. Our Sonographers and our support staff are dedicated to the provision of an excellent diagnostic service.  Appointments can be made quickly and are offered seven days a week to include evenings and weekends. Ultrasound is a simple noninvasive test that uses sound waves to provide valuable information about the internal organs of your child’s body.  

Ultrasound is a safe, painless, noninvasive test that cannot be heard and cannot be felt by your child.

If your child needs an ultrasound or if you have questions, contact us today or call: 01 210 0232

 

Everything You Need to Know About Paediatric Ultrasound / Ultrasound for Children

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound (also called a sonogram) uses sound waves to produce an image of the area being scanned. After gel is applied to the area, a wand shaped transducer is gently moved over the area to be examined. The gel helps with the comfort of the scan and also helps with creating clear images. The transducer (camera) sends sound waves into the body, and then a computer uses those sound waves to create an image on the monitor allowing the sonographer to have a look at what is happening inside.

Ultrasound does not use any ionizing radiation such as x-rays thus there is no exposure for patients. A typical scan usually takes about 20 minutes and can provide your child’s doctor with critical information.

What conditions can be diagnosed by ultrasound?

Though many people are aware of the use of ultrasound during pregnancy, paediatric ultrasounds are used to look for many different conditions. Some common reasons your child may be scheduled for an ultrasound include:

• congenital abnormalities of the kidneys and urinary system
• undescended testes
• appendicitis
• acute pancreatitis
• lymphadenopathy (a disease of the lymph nodes)
• ovaries of female children who show excessive growth
• soft tissue lumps and bumps
• chronic abdominal pain
• intestinal intussusceptions (a serious condition wherein one part of the intestine slides into another part, producing a blockage)

We do not offer ultrasound for congenital hip dysplasia (CHD)

What happens during an ultrasound?

Your child will be invited to sit or lie on a bed in a darkened room. Parents are invited as well for reassurance. The clothing surrounding the area to be examined will be removed or lifted out of the way. The sonographer will apply a small amount of clear gel to the area being scanned then the camera (called a transducer) will be gently moved across the area on the body to be examined. Black, grey and white images will appear on a screen and the sonographer will save all relevant imaging to be sent to a Consultant Radiologist for interpretation.

How do I help my child prepare for an ultrasound?

Though an ultrasound is painless, some children may be nervous about undergoing an unfamiliar procedure. If your child is old enough to understand, you can help alleviate any anxiety by explaining what will happen during the ultrasound. Your child may wish to bring a toy or blanket from home to provide a sense of security during the scan. Also, depending on which part of your child’s body is being scanned, electronic games or other hand-held devices can provide a distraction during the procedure. Of course, you should let your child know that you will be right there the entire time to provide reassurance and support.

A Paediatric ultrasound provides an excellent opportunity for your child’s doctor to provide good management and care when diagnosed early.

If your child has been referred for an ultrasound or is on a public waiting list, contact us for an appointment today: 01 210 0232