Why is this procedure done?
A radionuclide renal scan is an imaging test of the kidney. This is done: ‚
- To assess how well the kidneys are working
- To see if there are problems inside the kidney
- To detect blood vessel problems in the kidney
- After a kidney transplant
- When you have a possible kidney injury
This test uses a machine called a gamma camera. This camera sees where the radioactive agent goes and takes pictures of it in the kidney. ‚
What will the results be?
A radionuclide renal scan will give your doctor a clear image of the health of your kidneys. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to your doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- If you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Lab tests
- Ultrasound
- MRI scan
- Drink lots of water during the 2 hours before the test unless your doctor limits the amount you can drink.
What happens during the procedure?
- You will lie down on the table of the x-ray machine. The staff will put an I.V. in your arm and inject the radioactive agent into your blood vessel.
- Your bed may move in the middle of a special machine. The camera will take pictures of your kidneys. The machine will take pictures while the radioactive agent travels inside your body. Pictures will be taken over a 45-minute period. Try to stay still while the machine takes pictures.
- The test takes about 1 to 2 hours.
- Your doctor may order another scan after 4 hours.
What happens after the procedure?
- You may go home after the procedure.
- You may go back to your normal routine after the test.
What care is needed at home?
- Ask your doctor what you need to do when you go home. Make sure you ask questions if you do not understand what the doctor says. This way you will know what you need to do.
- Keep the puncture site clean and dry for the next 24 hours to prevent infection.
- Drink lots of fluids to help flush the radioactive agent out of your body. The agent may stay in your body for a day or two.
What follow-up care is needed?
- Your doctor will ask you to make a visit to the office to talk about the test results. Be sure to keep this visit.
- Your doctor will tell you if other tests are needed. Your doctor will tell you if you need a second scan.
What problems could happen?
- Bad reaction to the radioactive material
- Pictures were not clear
Helpful tips
- Avoid beer, wine, and mixed drinks (alcohol) before the exam. They may alter the results.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing during the test.
Where can I learn more?
Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging ‚
http://interactive.snm.org/index.cfm?PageID=11222 ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚