Bone scan
Service description
What is a bone scan?
A bone scan is a nuclear medicine test used to obtain detailed images of the bones. It is performed by injecting a small amount of a radioactive material (tracer), which accumulates in areas of increased bone activity. These areas are detected with a special camera, making it possible to visualize any abnormalities or problems related to bone metabolism.
What does a bone scan consist of?
The procedure begins with the administration of a radioactive tracer through an intravenous injection. This material circulates through the body and concentrates in the bones, especially in areas that show metabolic changes, such as inflammation, fractures, infections or tumors. After waiting for a period of time, which can last between 2 and 4 hours, the images are taken, where the patient must lie down and remain still while the images are captured. The tracer emits a small amount of radiation that is captured by a gamma camera, which produces the detailed images of the bones.
Preparing for the test
Fasting before the test is not necessary.
You should be well hydrated (drinking water or juice a couple of hours before the test) and urinate before the images are taken.
If you are under treatment with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, iron compounds or diphosphonates (for osteoporosis), the professionals should be informed, because there are some interferences that may affect the interpretation of the scan.
You can come accompanied, but not with children or pregnant women.
In the 24 hours following the test, you should drink plenty of fluids.
How long does a bone scan take?
The bone scan procedure itself is not painful and does not cause any side effects or complications. During the test, which can take anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes, you will need to remain still so that the images are clear. It is a safe test that will allow you to resume your daily activities without any problems once the test is completed.
centers with this service
Service description - Bone scan
What is a bone scan?
A bone scan is a nuclear medicine test used to obtain detailed images of the bones. It is performed by injecting a small amount of a radioactive material (tracer), which accumulates in areas of increased bone activity. These areas are detected with a special camera, making it possible to visualize any abnormalities or problems related to bone metabolism.
What does a bone scan consist of?
The procedure begins with the administration of a radioactive tracer through an intravenous injection. This material circulates through the body and concentrates in the bones, especially in areas that show metabolic changes, such as inflammation, fractures, infections or tumors. After waiting for a period of time, which can last between 2 and 4 hours, the images are taken, where the patient must lie down and remain still while the images are captured. The tracer emits a small amount of radiation that is captured by a gamma camera, which produces the detailed images of the bones.
Preparing for the test
Fasting before the test is not necessary.
You should be well hydrated (drinking water or juice a couple of hours before the test) and urinate before the images are taken.
If you are under treatment with chemotherapy, radiotherapy, iron compounds or diphosphonates (for osteoporosis), the professionals should be informed, because there are some interferences that may affect the interpretation of the scan.
You can come accompanied, but not with children or pregnant women.
In the 24 hours following the test, you should drink plenty of fluids.
How long does a bone scan take?
The bone scan procedure itself is not painful and does not cause any side effects or complications. During the test, which can take anywhere from 10 to 40 minutes, you will need to remain still so that the images are clear. It is a safe test that will allow you to resume your daily activities without any problems once the test is completed.