How do they do an x-ray on a toddler?

[Pam3197]

My daughter (nearly 2) needs to have a scan of her pelvis to rule out an issue with her hips and I'm trying to prep her for it by talking through what will happen, but I have no idea what happens at a scan for a toddler.

Can anyone describe what happens during x-rays for toddlers? Particularly pelvis/hip x-rays. Am I allowed to hold her during the x-ray? How do they keep them still enough?

I think you’ll be able to stay with her if you wear one of those X-ray proof aprons. She’ll only need to be still for a few seconds. I’m sure the staff will know what you and they need to do to make it as quick and as easy and as fun as possible for her.

A few years ago my then 18month old needed an x-ray of his abdomen and DH went in with him to help keep him still. I think someone can hold the child if needed but they need to put a plate between the parent and the x-ray area so the X-ray only shows the child.

Assuming you are not pregnant, they will get you to stay in wearing a lead apron. Make sure child is not wearing a vest / outfit with metal poppers and they may be able to stay dressed.

Radiographer shows you how to position child appropriately, they retreat behind the screen, and images taken.

My 2 yr old stands like a soldier for her regular chest x-rays….

My son had an x-ray to check his pelvis at about 18 months old because one of his legs was longer than the other so they needed to check his hips. I went in with him, put on a lead apron and held him still whilst they took the x-rays (they told me how to position / hold him on the bed, & they left the room whilst it was being done). I can't remember what I dressed him in but he had to have everything off including his nappy. It was very quick.

Radiographer here. Yes you will definitely need to stay in the room with a lead apron on and hold her still, if there's 2 of you, even better as sometimes kids are so wriggly if takes 2 adults to hold arms and legs still and 2 can be a bit of a difficult age. Depending on the reason for the xray they might have to do 2 images for different views. Easier to put her in clothes that can quickly be pulled down, nappy/pants will need to be pulled down as well. If she's nervous you can explain that the xray machine is a camera and it's taking a photo and she can smile and say cheese if she wants. Also, just because someone mentioned it above, if you are pregnant it doesn't matter, you have a lead apron on. Hope it goes well.