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Thyroid Uptake and Scan |
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A thyroid uptake and scan provides information about the structure (size, shape, position) and function of the thyroid gland. Located in front of the next, below the Adam's apple, the gland controls metabolism. An uptake and scan determines if the gland is working properly and can detect abnormalities such as nodules.
How to prepare
It is recommended that you schedule this exam in the morning, due to diet restrictions. Do not eat or drink anything two hours prior to and one hour after your day 1 appointment. A small amount of water is okay if you must take any medications that do not interfere with this exam. Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners, including zippers, buttons and snaps. Arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration. Bring with you: your appointment form; insurance information, including your insurance card; valid photo i.d. Please let us know about any of the following: pregnancy, known or possible; if you are a nursing mother; allergies or sensitivities to any substances or drugs
Prior to your exam, you may need to have blood drawn so that thyroid hormone levels can be measured.
What happens during the exam
This is a two day exam. On day 1, you will come to Suburban Imaging and swallow a capsule containing a small amount of radioactive tracer. The tracer will collect in your thyroid gland and can be seen by the nuclear medicine camera.
The next day (day 2), you will return to Suburban Imaging for the imaging portion of the exam. You will lie on your back on a cushioned table with the camera over your neck for the duration of the exam. The camera will capture three images of your thyroid gland from various angles. The first image will take 10 minutes to acquire and the remaining two images will last five minutes each. A nuclear medicine technologist will be in the room with you for the entire exam.
After your exam
Unless directed otherwise, you may drive, resume your normal diet, exercise and take all prescribed medications. The tracer remains in your body for a short time and is cleared through natural bodily functions. Drinking plenty of fluids will help flush it through your body more quickly.
Your images will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist specializing in body imaging. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results.
Thyroid uptake and scans are available at: Coon Rapids |
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