About Skeletal Survey
Key Highlights
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Provides a comprehensive, full-body assessment of the skeletal system in a single session.Non-invasive and generally painless, using low-dose radiation tailored for children.Essential for diagnosing complex or systemic bone disorders that may not be visible on isolated X-rays.Guides accurate treatment planning for fractures, infections, tumors, or genetic bone conditions.Performed by pediatric specialists who understand child-specific anatomy and radiation safety.
Who is this surgery for?
- Suspected non-accidental trauma (child abuse) to identify multiple fractures of varying ages.
- Evaluation of suspected skeletal dysplasias or genetic bone disorders (e.g., osteogenesis imperfecta).
- Staging or monitoring of metastatic bone disease or primary bone tumors.
- Diagnosis of systemic infections affecting bones, such as osteomyelitis or disseminated tuberculosis.
- Assessment of metabolic bone diseases like rickets or osteoporosis in children.
- Unexplained bone pain, swelling, or deformity with potential systemic cause.
How to prepare
- No special dietary restrictions or fasting is typically required.
- The child should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing without metal zippers, snaps, or ornaments.
- Parents may need to help position and comfort the child during the procedure.
- Inform the technician of any recent illnesses, allergies, or prior imaging studies.
- For infants and toddlers, scheduling during nap time or bringing a comfort item can help.
- Remove any jewelry, hair clips, or eyeglasses that may interfere with the images.
Risks & possible complications
- Minimal exposure to low-dose ionizing radiation; the benefit of diagnosis outweighs this small risk.
- Potential for anxiety or discomfort from having to hold still in various positions.
- Very rare risk of an allergic reaction if contrast material is used (not standard for basic surveys).
- Possible need for sedation in very young or uncooperative children, carrying its own minimal risks.
- Findings may be inconclusive, potentially requiring additional imaging (e.g., MRI, CT).
Recovery & hospital stay
- There is no recovery period as it is a diagnostic imaging procedure; normal activities can resume immediately.
- No special post-procedure care or medication is needed.
- The child may be tired if sedation was used; they should be monitored until fully alert.
- Results are analyzed by a pediatric radiologist and orthopedic specialist, with a follow-up appointment to discuss findings and treatment plan.
- Parents should ensure the child stays hydrated and rests if they experienced any stress during the procedure.
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Typical hospital stay: 0 days (outpatient procedure)
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Expected recovery time: 0 days (immediate)
Frequently Asked Questions
If you are considering skeletal survey in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.
Top-rated hospitals in India with pediatric orthopedics departments and experienced surgeons are ideal for this procedure. Use MediFyr to compare facilities, reviews, and doctor profiles before you decide.
Look at the doctor’s years of experience, hospital association, patient reviews, and how often they perform skeletal survey. MediFyr helps you compare pediatric orthopedics and book consultations online.
The overall cost depends on hospital category, surgeon’s experience, room type, implant or device used (if any), length of stay, tests, and post-operative care. Our team can help you get cost estimates from multiple hospitals before you decide.
Procedure cost in other countries
Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for skeletal survey compare across other countries where we have data.
Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow...
Our 8-year-old daughter fractured her elbow in a playground fall, and Dr. Prashanth Inna was absolutely phenomenal. He explained the complex procedure in simple terms, calmed our nerves, and the minimally invasive surgery went perfectly. His follow-up care was thorough, and she's now back to gymnastics without any issues!
Pediatric Orthopedics for Skeletal Survey
Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform skeletal survey and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.
- 15 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad
- 24 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road
- 9 Years Experience
- Pediatric Orthopedics
Manipal Hospital Mukundapur