Abdominal ultrasound for children
child abdominal ultrasound · pediatric abdominal ultrasound · kids' tummy ultrasound · pediatric liver ultrasound
The doctor uses ultrasound to look at your child's belly organs: liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen, and kidneys. It is safe and painless.
If your child has belly pain, poor weight gain, vomiting, or abnormal test results; or at a checkup.
⏱ Duration: usually 10 to 20 minutes; the report is ready right away
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Food. Usually fasting. Babies: before their next feed. Older children: 4 to 6 hours without food. Check with the clinic.
- Drinks. Plain water is usually fine. No soda or juice.
- Mindset. Tell your child it will feel cool and a little ticklish, but it will not hurt.
What to bring
- The referral
- Past ultrasounds and tests
- A sheet or towel
- A toy or a cartoon on your phone, to distract your child
How it goes
- Your child lies on their back, and you stay close
- Gel is put on the belly
- The doctor moves the probe over the belly
- Sometimes your child is asked to turn on their side or take a deep breath
- The gel is wiped off with a tissue
What you'll feel
- Cool gel, and it tickles
- Young children may cry. That is normal, and the doctor will wait
Afterwards
- You can feed your child right after the scan
- The report is usually ready right away
- Go over the results with your pediatrician
Common questions
Can I feed my child before the ultrasound?
Usually not. The organs are easier to see on an empty stomach. Babies: before their next feed.
Is ultrasound harmful for children?
No. Ultrasound uses no radiation. It is done even on newborns.