Bone Scan

A bone scan is a nuclear medicine test designed to look for abnormalities in the skeleton.

These abnormalities maybe new areas of growth or areas of breakdown.

A bone scan should not be confused with an x-ray.

Indications for a Bone scan

Determine if a primary cancer has spread to the bones

Look for stress fractures not evident on x-rays

Differentiate between osteomyelitis and cellulitis

Investigate whether pain is bone related

The Procedure

A radioactive tracer is injected intravenously.

The bones are given time to absorb the tracer (approx. 3 hours).

Drink up to 500 ml of liquids during waiting period.

Before scanning, metallic objects should be removed (belt buckle, coins, keys).

Empty the bladder before scanning.

Scanning time of 45 minutes to an hour.