Gentle Care During Pediatric Imaging
Rochester General takes special care in pediatric imaging. Our radiologists and staff have pledged to "Image Gently," taking precautions to minimize radiation exposure and promote radiation protection in the imaging of children. Our radiologists are happy to answer any questions or concerns about pediatric studies.
Pediatric Imaging Procedures Performed by our Expert Staff
What is a Renal Ultrasound?
A renal ultrasound is a safe, painless test that uses sound waves — not radiation — to create images of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. It helps detect issues like kidney size, injuries, blockages, stones, cysts, or tumors.
Preparation
If your child is toilet-trained, have them drink 12 ounces of water and hold their bladder one hour before the exam. Explain the procedure in simple terms to ease anxiety, and bring a comfort item or post-exam snack.
During the Exam
You can stay with your child for support. A sonographer applies warm gel to the abdomen and uses a transducer to capture images. The test takes about 30 minutes and may involve mild pressure or changing positions. Staying still helps ensure clear results.
What is an Upper GI X-ray?
An upper GI X-ray (or upper GI series) is a safe imaging test that uses radiation to capture images of the esophagus, stomach, and the beginning of the small intestine. It helps identify issues like swallowing problems, vomiting, reflux, ulcers, or blockages.
During the test, your child drinks a barium liquid while a radiologist uses fluoroscopy to track it moving through the digestive system.
Preparation
Ensure your child has an empty stomach — no food or drink for several hours before the exam. Remove clothing with metal (zippers, buttons) and jewelry. Inform the technician of any recent barium X-rays, medications, or allergies.
Bring a comfort item and a snack for after the exam. Explain the procedure in simple terms to ease any anxiety.
During the Exam
The test takes 15-20 minutes, with only a few minutes of radiation exposure. Your child will lie on a table, drink the barium liquid (which may taste chalky), and be repositioned to coat the GI tract. Holding still for a few seconds ensures clear images.
After the Exam
Barium may cause stools to be light-colored and hard. Encourage extra fluids to help with this.
How much radiation is used in these exams?
We all are exposed to small amounts of radiation daily from the sun, soil, rocks, buildings, air and water. People living in the mountains or flying in planes are exposed to higher amounts of radiation than those living near sea level. This type of natural radiation is called background radiation. The radiation used in x-rays has been compared to the amount of background radiation a person gets in one year.
| Radiation Source | Radiation Dose Estimate | Estimate of Equivalent amount of background radiation |
|---|---|---|
| Natural Background Radiation | 3 mSv | 1 year |
| Airline Passenger (cross-country) | 0.04 mSv | 4 days |
| Chest X-ray (single) | 0.01 mSv | 1 day |
How can we reduce radiation risk to my child?
There are ways to ensure that your child is exposed to the lowest amount of radiation possible during an x-ray or other imaging procedure. Rochester General minimizes radiation exposure for children through its Image Gently and Image Wisely initiatives that adhere to the following safety guidelines:
- Image with ionizing radiation only when there is a clear medical benefit
- Use the lowest amount of radiation for adequate imaging based on the size of the child
- Image only the indicated area
- Avoid multiple scans; limit number of x-ray images as much as possible
- Use alternative diagnostic modalities when (Ultrasound, MRI) feasible
What is a VCUG?
A voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) checks for reflux, a condition where urine flows back from the bladder to the kidney. During this painless exam, a radiologist takes X-rays of your child’s bladder and urethra to help diagnose and treat the condition.
Preparation
Bring a comfort item (toy, blanket, book) and a snack for after the exam.
During the Exam
Your child will wear a gown and lie on an X-ray table. A nurse will place a small catheter into the bladder to insert a contrast solution. You can stay with your child for reassurance. The radiologist takes X-rays as the bladder fills and during urination to assess the urethra.
After the Exam
Mild irritation or a burning sensation during urination is normal and usually resolves within 24 hours.