Name of the Procedure:

Radiologic Examination; Lower Extremity, Infant, Minimum of 2 Views

Summary

This procedure involves taking X-ray images of an infant's lower extremity (leg) from at least two different angles. These images help doctors diagnose and monitor various conditions affecting the bones and joints.

Purpose

The purpose of this procedure is to identify fractures, infections, congenital abnormalities, or other issues in the bones and joints of an infant's lower extremities. The goal is to provide accurate diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment.

Indications

• Suspected bone fractures or dislocations
• Symptoms of infection or inflammation (e.g., swelling, redness)
• Congenital abnormalities
• Follow-up on previously diagnosed conditions
• Persistent pain or mobility issues in the leg

Preparation

• No special fasting or medication adjustments are generally required for infants.
• Parents might be asked to remove any clothing or accessories from the infant's lower extremity.
• Inform the radiology team if the infant has any specific medical conditions or allergies.

Procedure Description

1. The infant is positioned on an X-ray table, and the lower extremity is arranged to capture images from the required angles.
2. The X-ray machine is carefully aligned to take two views of the leg.
3. A lead shield may be used to protect other parts of the infant's body from radiation.
4. The radiologic technologist will capture the images and check their quality.
5. The process is usually quick and involves minimal handling to ensure the infant's comfort.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes, including setup and image capture.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's radiology department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologic Technologist
• Radiologist (reviews and interprets the images)

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to a small amount of radiation, but the risk is minimized with modern equipment and protective measures.
• Rarely, the infant might become distressed or uncomfortable during the procedure.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of fractures, infections, or congenital abnormalities.
• Helps in planning effective treatment.
• Provides critical information for ongoing monitoring of a condition.

Recovery

• No special post-procedure care is required.
• The infant can return to normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss the results with the pediatrician.

Alternatives

• MRI or ultrasound can be used for certain conditions, but these may not provide as immediate or detailed images for bone-related issues.
• Physical examination and observation.

Patient Experience

• The procedure is usually quick and should not cause significant discomfort.
• The infant might experience some anxiety or discomfort due to the positioning and handling but measures are taken to ensure comfort, such as using soft supports and minimizing movement.