When is the use of fluoroscopy particularly risky for children?

The use of fluoroscopy carries increased risk for children, particularly when the child is unable to remain still during the procedure. In fluoroscopy, X-ray imaging is used to produce real-time video of the body’s internal structures. If a child cannot remain still, it may lead to prolonged exposure to radiation as additional images may need to be taken to achieve a clear view of the anatomy or pathology being examined. This increases the risk of radiation exposure, which can be more detrimental in children due to their developing tissues and increased sensitivity to radiation.

Additionally, children generally have a longer life expectancy, potentially leading to a longer time for radiation-induced effects to manifest. Therefore, ensuring that a child can remain still during the procedure is crucial to minimize exposure and protect their health. This highlights the need for optimal techniques and possibly sedation or distraction strategies to help them remain calm and still during imaging.