What is Ultrasound?
A paediatric ultrasound uses sound waves to create live images of internal organs and soft tissues, which can be viewed on a computer screen in real-time. A specialised camera called a transducer, held by our expert sonographer, sends and receives these sound waves. While performing the scan, the sonographer captures a series of still images, which are then sent to a radiologist for interpretation and diagnosis. The ultrasound machine, which looks like a large computer on wheels, displays the images continuously during the scan.
Why your child may need an ultrasound:
- Abdominal Issues:
Investigation of symptoms such as abdominal pain, vomiting, or swelling. Ultrasound can assist in diagnosing abnormalities of the liver, gallbladder spleen, and kidneys. - Developmental Abnormalities:
Ultrasound can assess the size, shape, and position of organs to determine if they are developing normally. - Urinary Tract Disorders:
Diagnosis of abnormalities or variants of the kidneys and bladder, including kidney stones or scarring. - Thyroid Conditions:
Examination of thyroid nodules or enlargement, particularly in children with a family history of thyroid disease. - Gynaecological Issues:
Detection of abnormalities in the uterus, such as structural issues, as well as ruling out ovarian conditions like cysts. - Testicular Abnormalities:
Investigation of lumps or bumps in the testicular or scrotal area. - Lymphadenopathy:
Assessment of swelling in lymph nodes located in the neck, groin, and other areas to determine the cause of the enlargement. - Lumps and Bumps:
Classification of soft tissue swellings, including cysts and benign lesions.
Your child’s doctor will explain any specific instructions based on the type of ultrasound needed. If you have any concerns about your child feeling scared or nervous, bringing a favourite toy or comfort item can help them feel more relaxed during the procedure.
Request a scan
We can organise a scan for your child as long as your doctor thinks it’s necessary. Please ask your doctor for a referral letter before booking a scan. Unfortunately we cannot process your booking request without a referral from your child’s doctor.
Price List
| Scans | Scan type | RRP per scan | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paediatric Ultrasound | 1 part | €195 |
All paediatric patient ages can be accommodated ranging from 0-16 years.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, ultrasound is completely safe. It uses sound waves, not radiation, so it poses no harm to children, including newborns.
Most ultrasound exams take 20 to 30 minutes to complete.
Before starting, the sonographer will ask about the reason for the ultrasound and explain the procedure to both you and your child. Depending on the area to be examined, your child may be asked to change into a gown or adjust their clothing to expose the necessary area.
Your child will then lie down on the exam bed, and the sonographer may offer a towel or blanket for comfort. To improve visibility of the screens, the room lights will be dimmed. A warm, clear lotion will be applied to both the transducer and the area of your child’s body being scanned. This gel is easily wiped off, won’t stain clothes, and helps the transducer glide smoothly over the skin.
During the scan, your child can watch the live images on the screen, getting a “see-through” view of their body. The process is painless, though your child might feel the transducer moving or experience a gentle tickling sensation from the gel.
The sonographer will capture a series of still images, which will be sent to the radiologist for review.
No, the ultrasound examination is painless. Your child might feel a warm sensation from the gel applied to the skin, and a slight pressure from the ultrasound camera, but there is no discomfort or pain involved.
One parent or carer is required to accompany their child into the exam room. Please arrange care for siblings during the appointment.
The scan usually takes about 15 minutes depending on what scan has been requested.
Preparation guidelines vary based on your child’s age and the specific body part being examined. Please follow these instructions carefully:
Abdomen
For this type of ultrasound, your child should not eat beforehand. Clear liquids are permitted. The fasting times depend on their age:
- Infants: 2 to 3 hours
- Ages 1 to 4: 3 to 4 hours
- Ages 5 to 10: 5 to 6 hours
- Ages 11 and older: 8 hours
Pelvic, Kidney and Bladder Ultrasound
No food restrictions are required, but your child must have a full bladder for the exam. Please encourage your child to drink the following amounts:
- Infants to 2 years: Liquid feeding one hour before the appointment. Bring an extra juice or formula bottle for the exam.
- Ages 3 to 5: Provide at least 8 ounces of liquid half an hour before the appointment. Ensure your child does not empty their bladder prior to the exam.
- Ages 6 to 10: Give your child 16 to 24 ounces of fluid 45 to 60 minutes before the appointment. They should not empty their bladder before the exam.
- Ages 11 and Older: Provide 32 ounces of fluid one hour before the appointment, ensuring they do not empty their bladder beforehand.
No special preparations needed for:
- Arms and Legs
- Thyroid
- Neck
- Testes
- Lumps and Bumps
Your child may need to stay still during the exam so the images can be captured clearly. If they are very young or find it difficult to stay still, they can at times be scanned in your arms or while sitting on your knee.
We recommend bringing their favourite toy to the scan for comfort. Screen time is always welcomed when needed during ultrasound examinations at Medica!
All of our ultrasound examinations are reviewed and reported by a paediatric consultant radiologist within 72 hours of the examination being completed by the sonographer.
Request a scan
If your request is urgent, please contact us on 1800 456225