Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a painless and non-invasive exam using sound waves to capture images of various body parts. A warm water-based gel will be applied to the skin and a handheld device, called a transducer, will glide across the area being imaged. The information is obtained by using high-frequency sound waves which are reflected off the body tissues, then created into images by the ultrasound machine. Ultrasound imaging shows real-life movement of internal organs and blood flow, allowing specialists to diagnose any problems within your child’s internal organs.
What You Can Expect
Ultrasound does not involve any ionizing radiation. The ultrasound will be performed with the patient lying down, but may need to roll into different positions in order to completely evaluate the anatomy. In older children, the technologist may ask them to hold their breath to help obtain images. Although patients are expected to hold still, the technologists at Riley are accustomed to handling patients who may not cooperate. We encourage parents or caregivers to help by holding their child’s hand or talking with them. A favorite toy from home is welcome and there are TV’s in each exam room to help entertain the children during their exam. The duration of the exam depends on the body part being imaged, so the exam may take as little as 15 minutes to as much as 1 hour.
How to Prepare
Preparing for an ultrasound varies, depending on which body part is being examined. Some tests may require food and drink restrictions, while others may require a full bladder. Consult with your referring physician or specialist for specific details for your child.
Abdominal Ultrasound (including Liver, Gallbladder, Pancreas):
The patient should not have anything to eat or drink (NPO) prior to exam. This is necessary to limit abdominal gas and to ensure adequate distention of the gallbladder.
Instructions according to the age of the child
Newborns: NPO for 3 hours
Under 2 years: NPO for 4 hours
3 – 8 years: NPO for 6 hours
9 years and older: NPO for 8 hours
Pelvis Ultrasound: The patient will need a full bladder.
A well distended bladder enables adequate visualization of the uterus and ovaries. The patient should begin drinking 45 minutes prior to the exam and try not to void.
Recommended fluid intake according to age of the child
Under 2 years: 1 bottle or 1 glass if possible
2 – 6 years: 2 glasses or 16 ounces if possible
7 – 12 years: 3 glasses or 24 ounces if possible
13 years and older: 4 glasses or 32 ounces if possible
Renal (Kidney) and Bladder Ultrasound:
There are no specific instructions for this exam; however, we are unable to visualize the bladder if it is empty. Encourage your child to drink without voiding prior to the exam.
What Happens After the Ultrasound?
Your child’s ultrasound results will be made available to your referring physician within 24-48 hours. Your physician will then contact you with the results and discuss further options and treatments available for your child based on the ultrasound results.