Clinical Program

Diagnostic Radiology

What is diagnostic radiology?

Diagnostic Radiology consists of standard radiography (X-rays) and fluoroscopy to help your child's doctor evaluate illnesses or injuries of nearly every part of the body.


What is conventional diagnostic radiology (X-ray)? 

Conventional diagnostic radiology, also known as radiography, is most commonly known as X-ray. An X-ray is a picture taken of your child's bones and organs by a large camera that uses radiation to take pictures of the inside of the body. The images are created when the X-ray passes through the bone and tissues onto a digital-image recording plate.


When is an X-ray needed? 

 X-rays are commonly used to assist physicians in the diagnosis and assessment of many conditions, including: 

  • bone fractures
  • pneumonia
  • scoliosis


What is fluoroscopy?

Fluoroscopy is a special X-ray technology that obtains moving, real-time images of the inside of your child’s body. During a fluoroscopy procedure, an X-ray is passed through the body, making it possible to see that body part or a dye (contrast agent) and its motion in detail.


When is fluoroscopy needed? 

Fluoroscopy is used in many types of examinations and procedures. It is the basis for certain diagnostic tests that use contrast, such as an upper GI series or a voiding cystourethrogram. Common diagnostic radiology procedures at Children’s Hospital Boston that use fluoroscopy include: