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BONE SCANS |
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What is a bone scan?
Bone imaging is one of the most commonly performed nuclear medicine tests. Bone scans are used to detect arthritis, osetoporosis, neoplasms, fractures and sports injuries, tumors and metastatic disease, as well as evaluate unexplained bone pain. Pictures can be taken of your entire body or only a certain area will be examined in detail. Your bone scan may be compared with an x-ray to obtain the maximum amount of information about your medical problem.
Are nuclear medicine procedures (bone scans) safe?
Nuclear medicine procedures are very safe. A patient only receives an extremely small amount of tracer (radioactive solution), just enough to provide accurate diagnostic information. The amount of radiation in a nuclear medicine test is no more than that received during an x-ray.
Who performs the bone scans?
A nuclear medicine technologist, a healthcare professional trained and experienced in the practice of nuclear medicine procedures, performs the test by administering the tracer, positioning the patient under the camera and operating the equipment used in the test. The images are then interpreted and read by a Suburban Imaging radiologist (healthcare provider with special training in x-ray studies and nuclear medicine procedures.)
How is the procedure done?
During the first part of the test, the tracer is injected into an arm vein. It generally takes about three hours for the tracer to be absorbed by the bones. In most bone studies, the imaging portion takes from one to two hours. For the bone scan, you will lie on the imaging table with the camera positioned above or below you. Several images may be taken or the camera may move slowly, imaging the entire length of your body. Although the imaging session takes approximately one to two hours, it is extremely important that you remain as still as possible so that the scan results are accurate.
How long does this test take?
You should allow four hours for this exam. Once you have the injection, you may leave the imaging center and return in three hours for the imaging part of the scan. Depending on the specific type of bone scan, the imaging may take one to two hours.
Why do I need to bring my previous scan or x-rays?
Past scans or x-rays are used by the radiologists to compare those studies to the new scan.
How long will the radioactive tracer material stay in my system?
In general, the tracer you are given will remain in your body for a short period of time and is cleared from the body through natural bodily functions. Drinking fluids will help eliminate the tracer more quickly.
How do I prepare for the scan?
It will be helpful to drink as many fluids as possible after the injection. The nuclear medicine technologist will give you specific instructions at your exam. You will also be instructed to remain still during the actual imaging so that the scan results will be as accurate as possible. The technologist will do everything possible to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.
When will my healthcare provider receive the results of this test?
Once the scan is completed, the Suburban Imaging radiologist will interpret the images and dictate a report to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results.
Bone Scans are available at: Coon Rapids |
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