The injected compound, called a tracer, is taken up in cells and tissues that are undergoing repair.
The gamma camera is designed to capture patterns of internal radiation and translate them into a two-dimensional image.
A bone scan is an extremely sensitive test that can detect even minor abnormalities in bone metabolism.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
It is central to the investigation of bone cancers, including secondary (metastatic) cancers.
Advantages and Disadvantages
A bone scan has both advantages and disadvantages.
The gamma scanner itself does not emit radiation.
You should advise your healthcare provider if you have a heart condition or are taking any heart medications.
Generally speaking, nuclear medicine of any sort is avoided in pregnant women.
If you are heavier, your healthcare provider may need to explore other diagnostic options.
Cuddling and being close to your infant after your test does not pose any risk to them.
According to prescribing information from the Food and Drug Administration, allergic reactions to technetium-99m are extremely rare.
Before the Test
A bone scan does not require much preparation on your part.
Timing
A bone scan is a time-consuming process.
The scan itself can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour.
Depending on the logistics, you may need to set aside the entire day.
What to Wear
you’re gonna wanna undress for the procedure.
Food and Drink
You do not need to fast before a bone scan.
The test will invariably require insurance pre-authorization, which your healthcare providers office can submit on your behalf.
If you are denied coverage for any reason, ask your insurer for a written reason for the denial.
If you are uninsured or underinsured, speak with the lab to see if there are monthly payment options.
Other Considerations
After the bone scan is completed, you should be able to drive yourself home.
They can advise you when it is safe to leave or whether someone should pick you up.
Pre-Test
Before the actual scan can be done, the radioactive tracer must be injected.
He or she will be able to tell you when you oughta return.
Check in with reception when you do.
Throughout the Test
The bone scan is performed approximately three hours after the injection.
Upon entering the scanning room, you are positioned on the scanning table by the technologist.
Thereafter, you oughta remain absolutely still as a series of scans are taken from head to foot.
Your position will occasionally be altered to obtain a clearer picture.
The technologist will remain in the room the entire time.
Some imaging units will have TVs with childrens programming to keep the child distracted.
This is especially true if you have low blood pressure or existing back, leg, or hip pain.
The technetium-99m injection can also sometimes cause a drop in blood pressure, which can leave you lightheaded.
If more images are needed, you may be asked to return.
Dont let this worry you.
It doesnt mean that the technologist found something worrisome.
Double check to ensure you have all of your belongings.
Sexual intercourse is also safe.
The aim of the study is to identify areas of abnormal bone metabolism.
Clinical expertise, supported with additional lab and imaging tests, may be needed to make a definitive diagnosis.
If your bone scan shows hot spots, try not to assume the worst.
This includes the time spent waiting for the radioactive tracer to fully circulate in the body.
A hot spot on a bone scan indicates the presence of an abnormality or damage in a bone.
It’s called a hot spot because it’s where the radioactive tracer has accumulated.
A bone scan machine does not require a person to enter an enclosed space and it is not noisy.
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National Library of Medicine.Technetium tc 99m sestamibi.
InDrugs and Lactation Database (LactMed).
Drugs.com.Technetium tc 99m medronate (intravenous).
Food and Drug Administration.Prescribing information for technetium Tc 99m sulfur colloid Injection.
Cleveland Clinic.Whole-body bone scan.
