Name of the Procedure:

Radiologic Examination, Osseous Survey, Infant
Common name(s): Full skeletal survey, Pediatric skeletal survey

Summary

A radiologic examination, osseous survey, for infants involves taking a series of X-rays to capture images of the baby's entire skeleton. This procedure helps in diagnosing various conditions related to bones and the skeletal system in infants.

Purpose

The osseous survey is primarily used to detect skeletal injuries, bone abnormalities, or diseases such as osteogenesis imperfecta in infants. It aims to identify and diagnose fractures, bone infections, or metabolic bone diseases early, ensuring prompt treatment and management.

Indications

• Unexplained bone pain or swelling in infants.
• Suspected non-accidental injury (child abuse).
• Symptoms of metabolic bone diseases, like osteogenesis imperfecta.
• Monitoring of bone development in infants with known skeletal dysplasia.
• Pre-operative assessment for orthopedic surgeries.

Preparation

• Usually, no special preparation is needed for infants.
• Parents might be asked to remove the baby's clothing and any metal objects, such as jewelry.
• Bringing the infant's favorite blanket or toy can help comfort them.

Procedure Description

1. The infant is carefully positioned on an X-ray table by a radiologic technologist.
2. Multiple radiographs are taken from different angles to cover the entire skeleton.
3. Parents or guardians might be asked to stay nearby to comfort the infant.
4. In some cases, gentle restraint or swaddling may be used to keep the infant still.

Tools, Equipment, or Technology Used:

• X-ray machine
• Lead aprons for parents if needed

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Typically, no anesthesia or sedation is needed.

Duration

The procedure usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the infant's cooperation and the number of images required.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a radiology department within a hospital or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologic technologist
• Radiologist (to interpret the X-ray images)
• Pediatrician (may be involved in the follow-up)

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to a small amount of radiation.
• Rarely, the infant may experience discomfort due to positioning.

Possible Complications:

• Minimal risk of radiation exposure, which is carefully controlled and minimized.

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of bone conditions or injuries.
• Early detection of skeletal abnormalities leads to timely treatment.
• Helps in monitoring the progress of known conditions.

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• No specific post-procedure care is required.
• Normal activities can be resumed immediately.

Expected Recovery Time:

• Immediate, as the procedure is non-invasive.

Alternatives

• Ultrasound: Used for evaluating soft tissues but less effective for detailed bone imaging.
• MRI: Provides detailed images without radiation exposure but may require sedation in infants.
• Bone scan: Useful for certain conditions but involves higher radiation exposure.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• The infant may feel uncomfortable due to the positions needed for X-rays.
• Minimal exposure to X-ray radiation.

After the Procedure:

• No pain or discomfort after the procedure.
• The infant can be fed and comforted immediately post-procedure if needed.