Explore This Treatment Program

Overview

Mass General's Division of Pediatric Imaging offers top-of-the line imaging services to fit the needs of the patient and their family. Our team understands the importance of an environment that is both comfortable and supportive. We are here to offer expert recommendations of care throughout every step of your child's journey.

Our radiologists (the doctors reading your child’s images), providers, nurses, child life specialists, technologists and care coordinators look for every opportunity to understand and help patients and their families during the imaging process. From the moment your child arrives, we work hard to make the imaging process as comfortable as possible and aim to ease anxiety by providing child-friendly descriptions of what to expect.

Types of Pediatric Imaging

X-ray

X-ray exams use a small dose of radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging. The image is interpreted by a doctor, called a radiologist, to detect and diagnose some medical conditions.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound is a noninvasive test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of internal organs in the abdomen such as liver, kidneys or blood vessels. The human ear cannot hear these sound waves, so a wand called a transducer is used.

CT

A CT (computed tomography) scan, also called CAT scan, is a test that uses x-ray equipment to take detailed images of inside the body. Sometimes contrast is used with CT scans, depending on the reason for obtaining the test.

MRI

An MRI is a test that uses magnetic fields to take detailed images of organs and tissues. An MRI does not use radiation. Sometimes, an MRI exam requires contrast to help the radiologists see the images more clearly and to better delineate the anatomy.

Fetal MRI

A fetal MRI is a noninvasive imaging exam that provides clear, high-resolution images. It requires no radiation. MRI uses magnetic fields to create multiple "snap shot" images of your baby that can provide further information about fetal anatomy. It is usually done in the second and third trimester.

Fluoroscopy

A fluoroscopy exam is a form of real-time x-ray that helps see inside the body, which can help to detect disease and abnormalities. Fluoroscopy makes it possible to see internal organs in motion. Different types of contrast may be used for these studies.

PET-CT

A PET-CT combines 2 types of imaging exams, PET (positron emission tomography) and CT (computed tomography) to find changes in the body at different stages of a disease. The PET scan measures metabolism. This can be used to determine the severity of cancers, neurological conditions, and infection.



Patient Resources

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Make an Appointment

Make an Appointment

Call the Mass General Imaging Central Scheduling Office at 617-724-9729 to schedule.

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Radiologists

Radiologists

While you may not meet them in person, you can learn more about our radiologists.

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Lowering Radiation dose

Lowering Radiation dose

Learn more about the many ways we work with families to minimize radiation dose exposure.

Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

View our Frequently Asked Questions. You can also call or email us. We're here to help!

What to expect at your appointment
What to Expect at Your Appointment

What to Expect at Your Appointment

Learn how to care for your child before, during and after their next appointment.

Videos
Patient Education Videos

Patient Education Videos

Watch these videos to learn how to prepare for your child's imaging exams.