Pediatric radiology is the use of medical imaging to diagnose or treat children's medical conditions. Pediatric radiologists use these medical images to get a look at internal structures and see any abnormalities.
Significance
Radiology allows doctors to see inside a person's body without having to surgically explore inside. This allows medical professionals to rule out or diagnose internal issues without the risks or complications associated with opening someone up. Pediatric radiologists are able to look at a radiological scan image and effectively see the internal organs, muscles and bones of a child.
Types
There are two basic subtypes of pediatric radiology; diagnostic radiology and therapeutic radiology. Diagnostic radiology is the most common, containing six different kinds of radiological specialties. These types include projection radiography, fluoroscopy, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), CT (Computed Tomography), ultrasound and nuclear medicine. Therapeutic radiology refers to radiation oncology. This type of radiology uses radiology to treat cancers.
Function
Every type of radiation scan has a different function. Projection radiology, otherwise known as the x-ray, uses electromagnetic radiation to take a picture of bones and soft tissues. A MRI uses strong magnetic fields to capture images of soft tissue within a person's body. CT scans are x-ray machines that produce images in 3-D, allowing radiologists to view the internal organs and bones in detail. Nuclear medicine combines a CT scan with radioactive tracers, allowing the analysis of physiological function as well as 3-D detailing. Ultrasounds use high-frequency sound waves to produce images of soft tissue structures in real-time. Fluoroscopy involves administration of a radiocontrast agent, such as iodine, to see real-time functioning of blood vessels, urinary tract or gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Considerations
Children with pacemakers or other metal implants may not be able to have MRI's due to the magnetic fields. Make sure to tell a doctor if the child has any metal implants. The effects of all types of radiology other than ultrasound are not advisable during pregnancy. If pregnancy is a possibility, advise the treating doctor for proper assessments of the risks and benefits of the scan.
Benefits
Pediatric radiology assists doctors in the diagnosis and prognosis of internal medical issues by allowing them to see internally. It prevents unnecessary surgeries by allowing doctors to rule out specific issues. It provides insight into the inner workings of the body without any invasive procedures.
Features
Each of the types of radiological images has key features that make them ideal for specific situations. X-rays are quick, inexpensive and easy to use to diagnose broken bones or major soft tissue issues. MRI's provide the best soft tissue images of all the radiological types. CT scans and nuclear medicine are the preferred imaging technique for vascular issues as well as appendicitis and other urinary tract issues. Ultrasound is used for pregnancy evaluation and monitoring of the fetus, as well as in trauma patients to assess hemorrhaging. Because of its portability, ultrasounds are the best choice when a patient is not mobile. Fluoroscopy is used with GI issues predominantly, both lower and upper.
Tags: soft tissue, body without, images soft, images soft tissue, internal organs, magnetic fields, metal implants