Wake Radiology Pediatric Imaging Procedures
Barium Enema
A barium enema is an X-ray study in which a small tube is inserted into your child’s rectum and the large intestine is then filled with barium. Barium is a non-toxic, contrast liquid that highlights organs to be studied.
Bone Scan
A bone scan is a sensitive and non-invasive imaging technique that is used to visualize the bones. It is different from plain X-rays or CT, which can provide exquisite anatomical detail, in that it shows bone metabolism.
CT Scan (CAT Scan)
CT, or computed tomography, is a procedure that uses X-ray equipment to take detailed, cross-sectional images of your child’s body. The information obtained is processed in a computer that displays a cross-section of body tissues and organs that are interpreted by a radiologist. CT is particularly useful because it can show many different types of tissue with great clarity, and images can be obtained quickly.
DMSA Renal Scan
A DMSA renal scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that is used to evaluate the anatomy and physiology of the kidneys.
Gastric Emptying Study
A gastroesophageal reflux study (gastric emptying study) is a diagnostic imaging procedure that measures the time it takes the stomach to empty and detects gastroesophageal reflux.
Gastrointestinal Bleeding (GI Bleed)
A GI bleed scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that can help detect the origin of gastrointestinal bleeding.
Hepatobiliary Scan
A hepatobiliary scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure that outlines the liver, and shows the flow of bile from the liver through the hepatic ducts (including the gallbladder) emptying in the small bowel.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Arthrogram
An MRI, or MR, arthrogram is an imaging procedure that demonstrates the joint spaces. An injection of a liquid contrast material into the joint space allows joints to be particularly visible during the MRI.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a routine diagnostic procedure that employs strong electromagnets, radio-frequency waves, and powerful computers to generate two- and three-dimensional images of the body’s organs, tissues, and bones. MR imaging does not use ionizing radiation (X-rays) so there is no radiation exposure to your child.
Radionuclide Cystogram (RNC)
An RNC is a test used to determine whether your child has vesicoureteral reflux. This is a condition in which urine flows from the bladder back up to the kidneys.
Salivagram
A salivagram is a diagnostic imaging procedure that outlines the flow of a mixture of saliva and a radiopharmaceutical from the mouth through the esophagus and the stomach. In aspiration, the radiopharmaceutical can be visualized as it flows into the lungs.
Thyroid Scan (Thyroid Scintigraphy)
A thyroid scan is a diagnostic procedure that produces functional images of the thyroid gland. It can help your physician determine the size, shape and position of the thyroid gland.
Ultrasound or Ultrasonography
Ultrasound is an imaging technology that uses high frequency sound waves to view internal organs and produce diagnostic pictures of the human body. No radiation is used. Wake Radiology Pediatric Imaging Center is specially designed, equipped, and staffed to obtain high-quality ultrasound examinations of pediatric patients of any size, age and medical condition, including tiny newborns, small infants, toddlers, young children, and maturing adolescents.
Upper GI Series (UGI)
An upper GI (gastrointestinal) series is a type of x-ray procedure in which the child drinks a substance called barium which fills and coats the intestine, allowing the radiologist to accurately diagnose many illnesses which affect the esophagus, stomach and small intestine. In the upper GI (UGI) series, the study is limited to the esophagus, stomach, and first portion of the small intestine. In a study with small bowel follow-through (SBFT), the remainder of the small intestine is also studied.
Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG)
A VCUG can help diagnose reflux, assess if your child has recurring urinary tract infections, and follow-up on patients with known urinary reflux following antibiotics or anti-reflux surgery.
X-Rays and Conventional Diagnostic Radiology
Radiography, more commonly known as X-ray, is the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. Conventional diagnostic radiography uses small doses of ionizing radiation to produce diagnostic pictures of the human body on film. The image is created when the X-ray passes through bone and tissues onto film or a digital-image recording plate.