Renal Scan

A renal scan assesses the functioning of the kidneys by tracking the uptake and excretion of a radioactive tracer over time.

Why has your doctor requested the scan

To assess the function of one or both kidneys.

To determine the cause of blocked kidneys.

To assess the perfusion of one or both kidneys.

To determine whether the renal system is the cause of hypertension.

Pre- and post- transplant evaluation for donor and receptiant respectively.

Procedure

Liquids only on the morning of the scan.

While lying on the scanning table a radioactive tracer is injected intravenously (some discomfort may be experienced)

Continuous pictures of the kidneys are taken for about 30 to 40 minutes

No or minimal movement ensures sharp pictures.