Radiology for children
Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital is home to West Michigan’s only full-service pediatric radiology department. All our providers are specially trained in diagnosing illnesses, injuries and diseases in children.
We continually incorporate leading-edge technology and innovative imaging examinations, many of which are only available at select children’s radiology departments around the country.
Our radiology team includes child life experts to put your child at ease. A child life specialist helps explain the exam to each child by practicing on a model and works with him or her to feel less anxious during the exam. We also offer video goggles so your child can watch a movie or listen to music during an MRI.
While imaging is a critical part of medicine, limiting the radiation dose used for diagnostic imaging exams is especially important for children. We are committed to protecting each child and using the lowest amount of radiation to achieve the desired result.
Find a Provider for Pediatric Radiology
Our experienced pediatric doctors and specialists are ready to serve you and your family.
Features of pediatric radiology
More powerful than an X-ray alone, CT scans combine X-rays with computer technology to create cross-sectional images that look like "slices" of your body. This painless procedure lets your doctor see the size, shape and position of structures deep in your body like organs and tissues.
This is used for the following: Upper GI and Barium Enema, Urodynamics and Videofluoroscopic Swallow Study.
This also includes the following: Cinegraphic MRI, Fast MRI (less than five minutes) for some conditions, Intraoperative MRI (iMRI) and Fetal and Neonatal MRI.
This includes the following: Bone densitometry (DEXA) Scan, Brain Shunt Function, Gastroesophageal Reflux, Hyperthyroid Therapy, Platelet Survival Imaging, Renal Flow and Function with Lasix.
An ultrasound procedure is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) diagnostic procedure used to assess soft tissue structures such as muscles, blood vessels, and organs.
X-rays do more than help us diagnose broken bones. We also use them for screening, diagnosing and treating other medical conditions such as infections, arthritis and tumors.