Bone Scan

What is a Bone Scan?

Bone scans are used to detect arthritis, osteoporosis, fractures, sports injuries, tumors and even cases of child abuse. Bone scans may also be used to evaluate unexplained bone pain, malignancies of the breast, prostate or thyroid and certain types of heart or brain damage.

What takes place during the test?

During the first part of the test, a radionuclide material is injected in the arm. Depending on the clinical history, the technologist may take pictures as the radionuclide is moving through your bloodstream before it reaches your bones. This is called a Flow study. After injection, with or without flow, it generally takes about 2 - 3 hours for the radionuclide to be absorbed by the bones. During the waiting period you should drink plenty of water and urinate as often as possible because it will help eliminate the radionuclide from your body that is not going to the bones. During the 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.

How long will the test take to complete?

The initial injection should take between 10 - 30 minutes depending on whether you are having a Flow. There will be a wait period of 3 hours after injection. Upon return, the scan will take between 45 minutes and 1 hour. Plan on setting aside approximately 4 hours from start to finish including the interval between injection and scan time.