Sonography of the Kidneys in Children: Basics

Abstract

Ultrasonography is the most important radiological investigation in Pediatric Nephro-Urology, allowing detailed evaluation without the use of ionizing radiation. Ultrasound in children is more rewarding in terms of findings, as their tissue composition and body habitus allow for extensive details to be demonstrated. Variable transducer frequencies and design (e.g., sector, phased, curvilinear, and linear array) allow for individualized approaches in pediatric radiology. Doppler ultrasound is valuable in sick children for the detection of blood flow, to confirm arterial perfusion, or to exclude venous thrombosis.