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What is Scintigraphy?
Scintigraphy or 'nuclear medicine' provides the ability for the reliable, painless and efficient examination of the physiological functions in various parts of the body. It is most widely used for examinations of the bones, thyroid and kidneys.
This is achieved by using medical radioisotopes to image various parts of the body. These images are collected by a device called a gamma camera and turned into scans. Scintigraphy plays an essential role in helping with early diagnosis for a wide variety of diseases and conditions, which in turn can help to make treatment more effective.
Accurate examination takes time
The radiotracer will take a certain amount of time to carry to the area of the body to be examined. For example bone scans require 2-3 hours for the radiotracer to settle, while for other scans the wait may be shorter. When making your appointment we will inform you how much time to allow for your examination. While you're waiting for the radiotracer to carry, you are free to leave and return at the allotted time for your scan.
In preparation for your Scan
A staff member will explain the procedure for your Scintigraphy examination to you. Shortly after arrival you will be given a small amount of radiotracer either to swallow or by injection depending on which part of the body is to be examined. Radiotracer has no side effects and the compounds are quickly eliminated from the body.
Why the Radiotracer is necessary
The radiotracer localises within the body in the area to be examined continuously giving off gamma rays (invisible radiation). This enables that area to be imaged by the gamma camera to provide the appropriate scans.
You may eat and drink as normal before and after the examination and continue with any medication prescribed by your doctor.
Relax during the examination
For your Scintigraphy examination the radiographer will help you onto a padded table and position you comfortably beneath the gamma camera. He or she will tell you when the required images are being taken and ask you to keep still during this time. The length of time for each image will depend on the area of the body being scanned and the diagnosis sought.
You should allow 30 - 60 minutes for the examination to be completed. |
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