Northside Hospital Announces Addition of Pediatric Sedation for MRI and CT Imaging

Northside Hospital recently announced the addition of pediatric sedation for MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and CT (computed tomography) imaging to the scope of services available at Northside/Cherokee Towne Lake Imaging in Woodstock.

“We are pleased to be able to offer pediatric sedation for these more advanced diagnostic imaging procedures for children and teens,” said Tanya Fields, M.D., a board-certified radiologist with a sub-specialty in pediatric imaging.  “Northside Hospital continues to invest in state-of-the-art technology and programs in order to provide comprehensive services and convenience to our patients.”

“Children are naturally anxious on a trip to the doctor, particularly when they don’t feel well or are in pain; getting them to be still during an MRI or CT procedure can be challenging,” said Kavitha Bareddy, M.D., a board-certified anesthesiologist with pediatric experience and medical director of pediatric imaging sedation at Northside Hospital. “When procedural sedation is recommended, we use a variety of effective and safe techniques, which are tailored to the specific needs of each child and their planned procedure.”

Dr. Fields and Dr. Bareddy lead Northside/Cherokee Towne Lake Imaging’s pediatric team alongside PALS (Pediatric Advanced Life Support)-certified sedation nurses. Together, they work to ensure that the highest quality diagnostic images are obtained. After each exam, Northside’s PACS (Picture Archiving and Communications Systems) allows the radiologist and the child’s referring physician to view images simultaneously from their own offices and computers. This enables them to directly discuss each child’s case and determine an accurate diagnosis much faster. Both parents and referring physicians are always kept in the information loop and results are typically available in less than 24 hours. Faster results mean shorter waits for diagnosis and treatment.

For more than 16 years, Northside/Cherokee Towne Lake Imaging has offered MRI, CT, digital screening mammography, digital X-ray, bone densitometry and ultrasound exams in addition to the new pediatric sedation service.