Bone Scan

Figure 1: Full Body Scan

The test involves injecting a bone-seeking nuclide (radioactive tracing element) into the patient's bloodstream. Over a two to four hour time period the tracing element collects in the bones. A gamma ray scanner (similar an x-ray) sweeps over the body and detects tracer rays emitted from the body. The scanner collects the distribution of the rays and transmits the information to a computer, which produces a permanent image.

After the patient is injected with the nuclide, he or she may leave the medical facility (e.g. to shop or eat lunch) and return in time for the actual scan. The patient is asked to remove metal objects (e.g. jewelry) and is given a gown to wear. Although the test itself is not painful, the injection site may be tender to the touch. The scan will last about an hour and may require the patient to change positions on the table.

Figure 2: Lateral Spine

The results of the test reveal 'hot' and 'cold' spots. Hot spots appear darker on the image and denote an area of high tracer uptake, possibly indicating an abnormality (e.g. infection). Cold spots appear light and indicate the bone absorbed less of the tracing element.

Important Considerations
If a patient is hypersensitive or has known allergies, this should be discussed with the referring physician prior to the bone scan.

The test may be postponed if the patient is pregnant or nursing.

The amount of nuclide (radioactive tracing element) injected is small, less than that of an x-ray. This substance breaks down quickly and is eliminated from the body in one to two days.