Paediatric Ultrasound Scans
What Is a Paediatric Ultrasound Scans?
At Ultrasound Ireland, we understand that children can feel anxious about medical procedures. Our team is experienced in paediatric imaging and dedicated to making your child's ultrasound as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Ultrasound is the ideal imaging choice for children because it's considered a safe choice, painless, and uses no radiation. Parents are welcome to stay with their child throughout the examination.
Please note: A GP referral is required for all paediatric ultrasound scans. We do not offer ultrasound for congenital hip dysplasia (CHD).
What We Assess With This Scan
- Abdominal organs (kidneys, liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas)
- Pelvic structures (bladder, ovaries in girls when indicated)
- Soft tissue (lumps, bumps, lymph nodes)
- Joints and musculoskeletal problems
- Neck (thyroid, lymph nodes)
- Scrotal (in boys — for undescended testes, pain, or swelling)
This scan cannot assess:
- Congenital hip dysplasia (CHD) — we do not offer this scan
- Brain imaging in older children (fontanelle must be open)
Why You Might Need This Scan
Common symptoms:
- •Abdominal pain
- •Urinary tract infections
- •Lumps or swellings
- •Joint or muscle pain
- •Testicular pain or swelling (boys)
Conditions we assess:
- •Congenital abnormalities of the kidneys and urinary system
- •Undescended testes
- •Appendicitis
- •Lymphadenopathy (enlarged lymph nodes)
- •Soft tissue lumps and bumps
- •Chronic abdominal pain
- •Kidney stones or cysts
- •Urinary tract infections
What to Expect
Before Your Scan
Preparation varies by scan type. For abdominal scans, fasting may be required (varies by age — we'll advise when booking). For kidney/bladder scans, a full bladder may be required. For soft tissue/lumps, no preparation is needed. Please bring a GP referral letter (required), any previous imaging or reports, and a favourite toy or blanket for comfort. Helping your child prepare: For younger children, explain that the scan is a "special camera" that takes pictures of the inside of their body. Reassure them that it won't hurt. For older children, explain what will happen and let them know they can watch the screen.
Preparation checklist:
- Bring GP referral letter (required)
- Bring a favourite toy or blanket for comfort
- Arrive 10 minutes before your appointment time
During the Scan
Your child will be invited to sit or lie on a comfortable bed in a dimly lit room. Parents are encouraged to stay for reassurance. The sonographer will explain what will happen in child-friendly terms, apply a small amount of clear gel to the area (the gel may feel slightly cool), and gently move the probe across the skin to capture images. The scan is painless, and most children find it interesting to watch the images on the screen. Typical duration: 20-30 minutes.
After Your Scan
Your child can return to normal activities immediately. There are no restrictions.
Results & Next Steps
Your child's scan is reviewed by a consultant radiologist, who prepares a formal report. This report is sent to your referring doctor within 2-3 working days. Please note: our sonographers cannot provide verbal results on the day.
Pricing
Price: €170-€270 (Medical Card: €150-€250)
Cancellation: We require 24 hours notice for cancellations or rescheduling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to Book?
Available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.
Call 01 210 0232Make an AppointmentReady to Book Your Scan?
Our experienced team is available 7 days a week across our three Dublin locations.