Excessive crying, unwillingness for examination and inability to describe complaints make a child, the most difficult patient. However, it is a challenge to the pediatric radiologist to master the art of 'talking' and achieve a successful examination. Posters on wall, fish tank in the waiting area or toys in sonography room may give the child reassurance of familiar things. When this is coupled with friendly radiologist, maximal co-operation is possible. Equally important is a clear, legible request form by the requesting clinician as that is responsible for avoiding an inadequate examination. Hence, it becomes important to understand the basics of various radiological modalities. These are

• Conventional Radiology - (Plain Radiographs).
• Fluoroscopy.
• Contrast examinations.
• Sonography.
• CT.
• MRI.



• Plain Radiographs : This is of paramount importance in achieving early diagnosis of spectrum of clinical problems, whether it may be X-ray skull for head trauma or X-ray chest for LRTI; good quality radiographs are the key to correct interpretation. However, lear- cut indications & communications with the pediatrician are essential. Though fast film/screen combinations and good quality machines may decrease the radiation dose, correct understanding of pathology is most vital & repeated radiographs with unnecessary radiation can be prevented.



• Fluoroscopy : It consists of an overhead X-ray tube with high definition TV monitor. In present era of excellent cross sectional modalities, fluoroscopy has a limited role. However, it may be of great help in:


• To confirm air trapping by a foreign body in the tracheobronchial tree.
• To look at diaphragmatic movements in a suspected case of eventeration.
• To evaluate stridor/chest mass.
• For Pericardial calcifications or motion of calcified valvular leaflets.



Procedures like Barium swallow & Barium Enema are also performed under fluoroscopic guidance. Though easy & fast to perform, due to high radiation & limited diagnostic yield, fluoroscopy is not routinely done.