PATIENT INFORMATION:

BONE SCAN

What is the test?

This test measures the activity of cells in your skeletal system.

What preparation is needed?

You may be asked to not eat any solid food or drink for at least four hours before the test. Remove all metal objects and jewelry before the test begins. You will receive an intravenous injection of a harmless dose of radioactive material. You will then be asked to wait about 1 to 3 hours for the material to localize in your bones. During this waiting period you will be asked to drink a lot of water and empty your bladder as many times as you can.

How is the test done?

You will lie on a special table, and you must keep very still during the scan. The scan takes about 1 hour and is painless. You may be asked to change your position on the table so the scanner can take additional pictures of certain parts of your body.

What can I expect after the test?

You should have no discomfort but you might feel tired from the test. You may return to your normal activities after the test.

For more information contact the Medical Imaging Department at 315/470-7551.