Can children also undergo radiological examinations?
June 19, 2022 | 40,00 EUR | answered by Nina Bergmann
Dear Radiologist,
My name is Emma Koch and I am concerned about my child. My son Max has been complaining of recurring stomach pains for some time now, and I am worried that it could be something serious. My general practitioner has advised me to have a radiological examination done to find possible causes for his discomfort.
However, I have concerns about whether it is safe for children to undergo radiological examinations. I have heard that radiation exposure can be harmful, especially for children. Are there specific examination methods that are safer for children? What are the risks associated with radiological examinations for children and how can these be minimized?
I also wonder if my child will be alone during the examination or if I can be present as a parent to provide him with security. How long does a radiological examination typically last for children and what is the procedure like? Are there any special preparations we need to make before coming in for the examination?
I only want the best for my son and want to ensure that he receives the best possible medical care. Therefore, I would appreciate it if you could provide me with more information about radiological examinations for children and suggest possible solutions to ensure my son's health.
Thank you in advance for your help and support.
Sincerely,
Emma Koch
Dear Mrs. Koch,
Thank you for your message and your trust in my expertise as a radiologist. I understand that you are concerned about the health of your son Max and are looking for information about radiological examinations in children.
Firstly, I want to reassure you that radiological examinations in children are generally safe when conducted under the supervision of experienced professionals. It is important to consider potential risks associated with radiation exposure, especially in children whose bodies are still developing. For this reason, special measures are taken in radiology to minimize radiation exposure as much as possible.
There are various examination methods specifically designed for children to minimize radiation exposure. For example, lower radiation doses are used in X-ray examinations of children, and special protective covers or devices can be used to limit the radiation area to the area being examined. Additionally, the use of alternative imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI may be considered depending on specific symptoms and clinical indications.
Regarding your question about whether you can be present as a parent during your son's radiological examination, I can assure you that this is possible in most cases. Your presence can provide your child with security and comfort, which is particularly important for alleviating any fears about the examination. However, it is important to note that you may need to wear protective clothing to minimize radiation exposure.
The duration of a radiological examination in children may vary depending on the type of examination. Typically, an X-ray examination only lasts a few minutes, while an MRI examination may take a bit longer, usually around 20-30 minutes. Before the examination, you and your son will be given specific preparation instructions, such as whether he needs to be fasting or should wear certain clothing.
It is important to communicate with your treating doctor and the radiologist to address all your concerns and questions. Together, we can ensure that Max receives the best possible medical care and that his health is ensured.
I hope this information is helpful to you, and I am available to answer any further questions.
Sincerely,
Nina Bergmann
