Bone Scan Preparation and Aftercare: What You Need to Know
Understanding the Bone Scanning Process
Undergoing a bone scan, also known as bone scintigraphy, is a common diagnostic procedure used to detect abnormalities in bone metabolism, such as fractures, infections, arthritis, or cancer that has spread to the bones. The good news is that no special preparation is required before the scan—there's no need to fast or stop taking your regular medications unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
What Happens During the Procedure?
When you arrive at the nuclear medicine department, a healthcare professional will administer a small amount of radioactive tracer—usually technetium-99m—through an intravenous (IV) injection. This tracer travels through the bloodstream and accumulates in the bones, particularly in areas with increased metabolic activity. While the substance is radioactive, it's safe and used in very low doses designed to minimize exposure.
About two hours after the injection, imaging begins. During this time, patients are encouraged to drink plenty of water. Hydration helps flush out excess tracer from soft tissues while enhancing its uptake in the bones, leading to clearer and more accurate images.
Tips for a Successful Imaging Session
Before the actual scan starts, you'll be asked to remove any metal objects—including jewelry, belts, or clothing with zippers or buttons—as these can interfere with image quality. You'll lie still on an imaging table while a gamma camera captures detailed pictures of your skeleton. The process is painless and typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether a whole-body or targeted scan is needed.
Staying hydrated during and after the scan is crucial. Drinking fluids like water not only supports better imaging results but also speeds up the elimination of the radioactive material from your body via urine.
Post-Scan Care and Safety Precautions
After the scan is complete, it's recommended to continue drinking water and rest in the waiting area for a short period. This allows medical staff to ensure you're feeling well and helps accelerate the clearance of residual radioactivity.
Although the radiation level is very low, it's wise to take simple precautions for the remainder of the day. Limit close contact with pregnant women and young children, maintain some physical distance when possible, and practice good hygiene—especially frequent handwashing and thorough flushing after using the restroom.
Is the Radiation Risk Significant?
The amount of radiation involved in a bone scan is comparable to that of other standard imaging tests, such as CT scans, and is considered safe for most adults. The tracer loses its radioactivity quickly and is mostly gone from your body within 24 to 48 hours. Always inform your healthcare provider if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or have concerns about radiation exposure.
In summary, a bone scan is a valuable, non-invasive tool for diagnosing bone-related conditions. With minimal preparation, straightforward aftercare, and effective safety measures, patients can undergo the procedure with confidence and comfort.