Pediatric & Neonatal Ultrasound
Hip exam fordevelopmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH)
DDH, also called congenital dislocation of the hip or hip dysplasia, is a condition in which the ball and socket of the hip joint are not properly developed. With DDH, the hip socket is usually too shallow to hold the hip bone. It often affects joint movement and, in severe cases, can lead to dislocation. If your pediatrician believes your child may have DDH, they will order an ultrasound to confirm the diagnosis. Risk factors contributing to Developmental Displasia of Hip include breech presentation, female sex, positive family history, firstborn status, and oligohydramnios (low amniotic fluid).
Pelvic ultrasound for undescended testicles
An undescended testicle, also known as cryptorchidism, is a condition in which the testicle hasn’t moved into its proper place in the scrotum before birth. Testicles develop inside the abdomen and move down into the scrotum shortly before birth. The condition is usually seen in preterm boys, and in about half of those affected, the testicles move down on their own by the sixth month. Ultrasound can help your pediatrician evaluate the undescended testicle, especially before a referral to a surgical specialist.
Abdominal ultrasound for pyloric stenosis
Also known as pediatric pyloric stenosis, pylorostenosis is the narrowing of the opening where the stomach meets the small intestine (called the pylorus). The most common symptom is worsening projectile vomiting, which can lead to dehydration, weight loss,and other health problems. Diagnosis involves physical examination as well as ultrasound imaging.
Renal ultrasound for hydronephrosis
Hydronephrosis is a condition where one or both kidneys become stretched and swollen as the result of a build-up of urine inside them. The condition can start at any age, and it is often diagnosed in children, infants and even during pregnancy. If your child is suspected of having the condition, the doctor may refer them for a range of diagnostic testing, including ultrasound.
Avoid Food & Drink
Avoiding food and drink for a couple of hours is standard practice before an abdominal ultrasound. Eating can lead to gas inside the digestive tract, which can block ultrasound from reaching targeted organs. Eating and drinking can also make certain abdominal organs less visible on examination. How long your child should fast before an exam depends on their age.Call our office for details.
Schedule Feeding & Drinking
Other exams, on the other hand, require a full stomach or bladder. We may instruct you to formula or breastfeed an infant prior to an exam or to give a preschooler as much liquid as they can drink before an exam. Renal and pelvic exams usually require this type of preparation to make organs more visible. Feeding a baby before a hip ultrasound can make the baby more relaxed during the procedure.
FAQS
Why would a child/infant need an ultrasound?
There are many reasons a child or baby might need an ultrasound. Premature infants, for example, may need a head ultrasound to rule out neurological problems due to preterm birth. Projectile vomiting in babies could indicate presence of pyloric stenosis that an ultrasound can help to diagnose.
How do I prepare my toddler for an ultrasound?
Toddlers are often less compliant during exams than older children. Explaining that the exam is painless and quick can help your toddler feel less anxious about the procedure. Bringing your child’s favorite toy or electronic device can help distract them during the scan.
When will I get the results of the exam?
Your sonographer will send the images of your exam to the radiologist within 24 hours. It may take up to three business days for your referring physician to receive your results and contact you. However, most patients hear back from their referring doctor within two days. Urgent results are available in 2-3 hours.
Make an Appointment for Ultrasound
To make an appointment for an ultrasound or request pricing, please call our office today at +1 345 939 1282 or +1 345 946 0067. You can email your doctor’s referral form to office@caymansurgery.ky. Please don’t forget to provide your phone number. We will contact you to make an appointment. If you do not have a doctor's referral you should get one during your next visit.
