An ultrasound, also called a sonogram, is a type of imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the organs or soft tissue in the body to help diagnose a variety of conditions.

Ultrasound is very safe and does not produce any radiation. However, ultrasounds are limited in how much information they can capture, and sometimes additional imaging studies are needed, depending on your child’s condition.

Sedation is almost never necessary for an ultrasound.

What to expect

Please arrive on time, and bring a photo ID with updated insurance information to your child’s appointment. Your child’s ultrasound scan will typically take 30-45 minutes.

You will receive specific instructions on how to prepare for your child’s ultrasound before the appointment. Your child may need to fast for up to six hours before the appointment, to ensure that any food in their system has been digested and won’t get in the way of obtaining the necessary images. If the study requires a full bladder, such as a renal or bladder ultrasound, please have your child refrain from urinating until after the scan is complete.

Your child will lay down during the exam. Most ultrasound exams are performed using an ultrasound device outside the patient’s body, with a water-based gel applied to the skin over the area being examined. This gel will wipe off easily after the exam. Some tests may require an internal ultrasound. In this case, a wand called a transducer is gently placed in the necessary area to capture the images.

You may bring comfort items for your child to hold during the exam, such as a favorite stuffed animal or toy, blanket, book or tablet.

Your child should wear comfortable clothes that do not have metallic buttons, zippers, snaps, pins, etc. Please make sure your child is not wearing any jewelry, including piercings. Your child may need to change into a gown for the test.

Follow up

Results from your child's ultrasound will go to the doctor who referred you to us.