Pediatric radiology is a subspecialty of radiology which uses imaging technology to identify medical conditions in children. Pediatric radiology detects potential disorders, diseases, and injuries so that patients may receive treatment.
Pediatric radiologists use a variety of advanced imaging techniques to observe the interior structures and tissues of the body. They aim to limit a child's exposure to radiation and prefer less invasive scans. Pediatric radiologists may conduct scans or supervise a radiology technician who gathers them. Once images and scans of a child's body are captured, pediatric radiologists then interpret the images by looking for any physical anomalies. Imaging technologies a pediatric radiologist may use include:
Some patients are prompted to take contrast dye, a drinkable or intravenously injected substance to highlight parts of the body during imaging.
Pediatric radiologists may use a number of tactics to tailor the imaging process to young patients. To help children remain still, pediatric anesthesia or sedation may be administered. Some pediatric facilities host a child-life specialist who provides emotional support. At times, parents are permitted to accompany their children during scans that do not use anesthesia. Many children's hospitals have even installed special scan suites designed to be child-friendly. These suites decorate scanning equipment and may offer films and music to entertain children throughout the scan.
