Pediatric Radiology

Image Gently

Our pediatric radiology team uses techniques that minimize a patient's exposure to radiation.

We believe a child should receive the lowest dose of radiation possible when undergoing an imaging procedure. We follow "Image Gently" guidelines from the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging. These special protocols keep radiation levels as low as possible while still achieving high-quality images.

We are sensitive to the challenges of imaging young patients who may be frightened by the equipment or unable to hold still. We focus on each patient’s experience and use age-appropriate distraction techniques to comfort and relax patients. Parents can be assured their children are receiving high-level medical care with regard for their emotional well-being.

All pediatric images are reviewed and analyzed by radiologists who provide accurate diagnoses in a timely fashion.

To speak with Diagnostic Radiology, call 518-262-3402.

To speak with Interventional Radiology, call 518-262-3393.

General Radiology

X-rays emit a small amount of radiation to create images of the body’s interior structures, including the heart, lungs, blood vessels and bones. A focused beam of radiation is passed through the body, and a black and white image is recorded.

Digital Fluoroscopy

A form of X-ray that allows viewing of the deep structures of the body in real time. It provides very detailed images showing the function and structure of areas like the intestines, esophagus, stomach and bladder. Digital fluoroscopy records a series of images to a computer where they can be reviewed later.

Ultrasound (Sonography or Ultrasonography)

Ultrasound is a procedure that transmits high-frequency sound waves, inaudible to the human ear, through body tissues. The echoes are recorded and turned into video or photographic images of the internal structures of the body. Ultrasound exams are performed for a wide range of reasons, including abdominal, renal, pelvic, and musculoskeletal conditions.

Computed Tomography (CT Scan or CAT Scan)

A CT scan combines X-ray images with the aid of a computer to generate cross-sectional views of the body. CT scans may be used to image the brain, neck, spine, cardiovascular system, lungs, abdomen, pelvis, or musculoskeletal system.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging uses a large magnet, radio waves and a computer to produce very clear images of the human body without the use of X-rays. Although MRI is used mostly for imaging the brain and spine, it may also be used to evaluate cardiovascular abnormalities. MRI is also used on the chest and abdominal areas, and can be used to diagnose pelvic disease and musculoskeletal problems.

Image Gently

To Minimize Radiation Exposure for Infants and Children

Our pediatric radiology team follows Image Gently guidelines by the Alliance for Radiation Safety in Pediatric Imaging. We follow guidelines that minimize X-ray exposure to infants and young children during imaging procedures, without lessening image quality. Our specialized techniques and equipment not only reduce the amount of radiation, but also the time it takes to complete an exam.

Ultrasound

We use ultrasound imaging technology whenever possible. Ultrasound uses sound waves instead of radiation to obtain an image for diagnosis. Ultrasound is useful for the evaluation of infant brains, the abdomen of children with abdominal pain, the hips and spine of young infants, and various congenital conditions in infants. Ultrasound is also used on a wide range of "lumps and bumps" found in children upon physical examination.

Albany Medical Center's pediatric radiology suite is equipped with imaging technology specially designed for infants and children. Our pediatric radiologists and technicians focus on three areas of care for young patients: comfort, obtaining the best quality images in the shortest possible time, and using the least amount of radiation possible.

Our pediatric radiology rooms are colorful and bright, and are decorated with brilliant images of tropical fish and cheerful balloons. Toys and books are close at hand so technicians and parents can readily distract and entertain babies and children during a procedure.

Fluoroscopy Room ("Fish Room")

Fluoroscopy uses a low dose of radiation to record images of the body in real time. This procedure is often used to record the action of swallowing as a child drinks barium liquid. It is also used for studies of the urinary tract.

The X-ray machine is decorated by a colorful fabric and adorned with shiny stickers that a child can see while lying on the table. As the physician positions the camera, a child has many distracting images to watch.

X-ray Room ("Balloon Room")

The x-ray room is decorated with a colorful hot air balloon theme to keep children distracted while X-rays are performed.

Portable equipment for bedside imaging

When hospitalized patients are unable come to the pediatric imaging suite, we take our portable imaging equipment to the bedside. Our specially trained technicians and equipment allow us to get the images needed while patients stay comfortably in bed.