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Nuclear Medicine: Bone Scintigraphy
Where:
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Report to the Radiology Department on first floor of . You should arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment time in order to be registered. |
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Purpose:
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Bone scintigraphy is a diagnostic study used to evaluate the distribution of active bone formation in the body. It is used mainly to detect osteomyelitis or early signs of metastatic cancer. |
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Preparation:
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If you are a woman of childbearing age and there is a chance you may be pregnant or if you are breastfeeding, please consult your physician before scheduling this exam.
Your normal medications may be taken prior to your test.
Please do not bring children with you to the appointment. |
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What to Expect:
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Inform the technologist the following information:
ü Previous surgeries
ü Current medications
ü Recent imaging or x-rays with contrast-containing material
ü History of prior administration of radiopharmaceuticals
A small amount of a radioactive medication will be injected into your vein through a small needle placed in your arm. The medication will accumulate in your bones so that x-ray pictures can be taken. The amount of radiation you will be exposed to is similar to that from routine x-ray procedures such as an Upper GI exam or a CT exam. After the injection, you may leave the Nuclear Medicine Department but must return within 3-4 hours. While you are away you will need to drink 2 or more 8-oz glasses of water.
When you return, you will be asked to urinate. Then, while you are lying comfortably on your back, a special camera will take pictures of your bones at various angles. It will take up to one hour to complete this part of your exam. It is important that you remain very still while the pictures are being taken.
The radiologist's report of the results will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results of the test with you. |
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After Care:
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Drink plenty of fluids for at least 24 hours after testing.
Normal activities and diet may be resumed. |
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Questions: |
Please call 205-930-3278 if you have additional questions. |
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