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Children deserve special care

When it comes to the health and wellness of our children, we all agree that expert care delivered by compassionate caring people is what everyone needs and deserves.

The Kid’s imaging services delivered by CDC is among the best available anywhere. All paediatric imaging is conducted at our Marlborough location under the direct supervision of Dr. Ibrahim Aytour, who completed his paediatric fellowship at The Alberta Children’s Hospital and is a father himself,.

Dr. Aytour and his team are trained in the unique requirements of paediatric imaging, and services are delivered in a manner that are as stress free as possible for the child and all family members.

Why is imaging children different than imaging adults?

Children are NOT little versions of adults. Their anatomy and physiology differ greatly and the application of imaging protocols for adults is often unsuitable for a child.

All of our equipment and procedures have been developed specifically for infants and children. For example, our X-ray and fluoroscopy equipment are customized to minimize radiation so children are exposed to a minimum.

It is also important for a child to feel at ease during the examination. The radiologist and technologist are experienced in using a combination of preparation and distraction to help alleviate stress. Parents can also help by discussing the test with their child and bringing along a favourite toy.

Types of Paediatric Imaging Services

X-ray

X-ray is the most common form of medical imaging. An x-ray image is created when a small amount of radiation passes through the body to reach a digital imaging plate.
Learn more about X-ray


Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of structures within your body, valuable in the diagnosis of a variety of diseases and conditions.
Learn more about Ultrasound


Gastrointestinal (GI) Studies

Fluoroscopy is a moving real-time x-ray that captures images while a contrast agent (such as barium) passes through the body. This procedure produces detailed images that assist in the treatment or diagnosis of stomach and intestinal conditions such as :

  • Heartburn
  • Indigestion
  • Inflammation
  • Ulcers
  • Blood in stool
  • Change in bowel habits
  • Cancer

Types of Paediatric GI Studies

Upper Gastrointestinal (UGI)

This procedure follows a contrast agent through the esophagus, stomach and the first part of the small intestine, known as the duodenum, to investigate symptoms including swallowing issues, vomiting, burping up food, heartburn (reflux) and abdominal pain.

Small Bowel Follow Through (SBFT)

During this exam, images are captured at regular intervals as a contrast agent flows through the length of the small intestine. It is used to investigate bowel structures, obstructions and abnormal bowel movements.

Duration: A SBFT exam can take from 1-4 hours depending on the length of time needed for the barium to pass through the bowel.

Barium Enema

This exam looks at the large bowel and rectum and it is used to investigate inflammation of the large bowel, Crohn’s Disease and abdominal pain or blood in stool.


Genitourinary (GU) Studies

These procedures examine the urinary tract, bladder and urethra. A catheter is inserted into the bladder or urethra and x-ray contrast is used to visualize and image the area.

Types of Paediatric GU Studies

Voiding Cystourethrogram (VCUG)

This exam explores the urinary tract and bladder. A catheter is inserted into the bladder and then filled with x-ray contrast before images are taken. The patient is then required to empty their bladder while more images are taken. It is used to assess how well a child’s kidneys, ureters and bladder are functioning and to detect the cause of recurrent urinary infections or abnormalities of the bladder.

Retrograde Urethrogram

This procedure examines the urethra specifically. The patient has a small access tip inserted into the tip of the urethra and images are taken while it is filled with an x-ray contrast agent

Exam Duration

30 Minutes – 60 Minutes

Pediatric Imaging Pricing

Covered by Alberta Health Care

Locations