A Patient's Guide to a Bone Scan
What is the purpose of the Bone Scan?
The most common reasons for performing a Bone Scan is to
detect areas of abnormal bone growth due to fractures, tumours, infection,
or other
bone diseases. The radiopharmaceutical most commonly used
is 99mTc-Medronate (MDP). MDP is injected into a vein, usually in the
arm,
where it is transported by the bloodstream to the bones.
What happens when I arrive in the Nuclear Medicine Department?
On the day of the exam, you will check in at the Nuclear
Medicine Department. A Nuclear Medicine Technologist will explain to
you their
Bone Scan procedure. You may also be asked several important
questions about your health. What happens, in most cases,
is that an injection
of a small amount of radiopharmaceutical called 99mTc-Medronate
(MDP) will be injected into one of your veins (usually in your
arm).
What happens after my injection?
Pictures of the blood supply going to your bones may or may
not be taken immediately after the injection. After the injection,
there is a delay
of a few hours. This delay is necessary to allow the material
to accumulate into your bones. The delay will vary from department
to
department. You will be told at what time to return for further
pictures by the Technologist. The length of time spent in
the department when
you return varies for each hospital. Ask your Technologist
approximately how long you can expect to be when you return
for the second part
of your Bone Scan.
What do I have to do to prepare for the test?
There is no preparation prior to having a Bone Scan. You
may continue to eat and drink normally prior to, and
after the Scan. If you are on
any medications, you may continue to take them. Drinking
plenty of fluids before and after the injection of the MDP
often helps to give better
pictures of your bones. It is also recommended that you void
frequently following injection.
How safe is the Bone Scan?
Any diagnostic procedure may have some risks, and you should
consult your physician regarding the risks and benefits of this procedure.
99mTc-Medronate (MDP) causes minimal side effects. The test
and material are used routinely worldwide under physician supervision.
What happens when I return to the Nuclear Medicine Department
for the second part?
When you come back, empty your bladder before your Scan.
The Technologist will position you on a bed under a machine called
a Gamma
camera. The camera may or may not pass over you. The Scan
time will vary depending on what your doctor is looking for.
Plan to be in the
department anywhere from 30-60 minutes.
Following the procedure
If you are an inpatient, you will be returned to your hospital
room. If you are an outpatient, you may go home and continue
your regular activities.
When will I get the results of my exam?
A report describing the findings of your Bone Scan will
be sent to your physician. You should make an appointment
to see your referring
doctor to obtain the results of your test.
Who can answer any other questions I might have?
Your personal physician, or a physician, nurse, or Technologist
in the Nuclear Medicine Department.
Please note that this information is provided for
educational purposes only. It is not intended to substitute for informed
medical advice. The user of this site should not use this information
to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease without consulting with
a qualified health care provider.
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