Radiation Exposure in Infants

Toddlers Checked for Injuries

This handout answers questions about the amount of radiation exposure for additional imaging necessary in infants and toddlers.

When we evaluate infants and toddlers for skeletal injuries, we usually need to image their head and bones. This is part of a more complete medical exam since young children often do not have symptoms from head and bone injuries. These exams provide important information to help us diagnose, treat and monitor your child’s condition. Your doctor has determined the benefits of these detailed images outweighs any minimal radiation risk to your child.

We are all exposed to small amounts of radiation in normal, daily life from soil, rocks, air, water and even some of the foods we eat. This is called background radiation.

How much radiation will my child be exposed to?

The radiation dose varies with each patient and type of exam. Our team uses each patient’s age and weight to determine the radiation doses needed to get the best medical images using the least amount of radiation. The radiation doses at Seattle Children’s are consistently lower than the guidelines recommended by the American College of Radiology (ACR). Typically, there are three exams done. If all three exams are done, it will equal about 9 months of background radiation exposure.

A CT scan of the head involves radiation equal to about 7 months of background radiation.
A bone survey includes about 18 X-rays (in some cases, the radiologist may request more X-rays) and is equal to about 5 weeks of background radiation.
We will also need to do a follow-up bone survey after 2 weeks. A follow-up bone survey includes about 14 X-rays and is roughly equal to 3 weeks of background radiation.

What if I have more questions?

You are encouraged to discuss your concerns with your child’s primary or emergency care provider. They can talk to you about the benefits and risks of an exam, as well as talk about alternatives. Once the exam has been ordered, our imaging experts will be pleased to answer your questions

To Learn More

Radiology
206-987-2089
Ask your child’s healthcare provider
seattlechildrens.org/patient-education

Free Interpreter Services

In the hospital, ask your nurse.
From outside the hospital, call the toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter the name or extension you need.

Seattle Children’s offers free interpreter services for patients, family members and legal representatives who are deaf or hard of hearing or speak a language other than English. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your healthcare provider.

06/01/2025

PE2769

Radiation Exposure in Infants

How much radiation will my child be exposed to?

What if I have more questions?

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