SEARCH

The digestive system breaks food down into basic nutrients that can be used by the body. As food moves through the digestive tract, it's broken down into parts and absorbed into the bloodstream.

An abdominal ultrasound uses sound waves to take pictures of abdominal organs. It's painless and noninvasive. It's often used to assess abdominal pain or to find problems like enlarged organs.

An upper GI series is an X-ray exam of the upper digestive tract. Here's what you should know when your child needs this exam.

A blood test can be stressful for both you and your child. You can take steps to make the process easier. Tell your child that you will do what you can to make it go smoothly. Read on for tips that may help.

Your child's healthcare provider has told you that your child needs a tracheostomy. This creates a new pathway for air. Surgery is needed to do this. During the surgery, the surgeon makes a small opening in your child's neck. A tube (called a trach tube) is placed in this opening. Air then flows into and out of the trach tube, allowing your child to breathe. This sheet will help you learn more about tracheostomy.

Your child's tracheostomy needs regular care to keep the area clean and to prevent infection. Follow these guidelines.

In a trach tube, mucus can build up and thicken. Regular suctioning of mucus keeps the tube clear. You will be instructed on how to suction mucus. Read on to learn the basic steps.

Learning to walk with your prosthesis takes practice. To prevent falls, you may need a cane for balance and support.

Hip dysplasia is a problem with the hip joint. It is present at birth. Some babies may need a special harness to help place the hip in the proper position.