Bone Scan

Indications

• Detection of bone metastases
• Diagnosis of osteomyelitis 
• Evaluation of musculoskeletal trauma
• Evaluation of primary benign and malignant bone lesions
• Evaluation of bone pain

Test Preparation

For most bone studies, patients will be asked to drink as much fluid as possible, both before and after the procedure. There are no dietary restrictions. 

Examination

During the first part of the test, the radioactive tracer is injected into a vein, usually in your arm.   Depending on the reason for the examination there may be some pictures taken during and immediately following the injection. There is a two to three hour waiting period between the injection and scan to allow the radioactive tracer to be absorbed by the bones. It is okay to eat during this waiting period.  During the waiting period, you should try to urinate as often as possible to help eliminate the excess tracer from your body.

The imaging portion takes about one hour.  Pictures that are taken depend on your specific reason for the bone scan. You will lie on the imaging table with the camera positioned above and below you.  The camera will move slowly, imaging the entire length of your body taking 15 minutes and/or you could have spot images taken of a specific area of the body. It is extremely important that you remain as still as possible so that the scan results are accurate. 

Related Information

Spondylolysis