Bone scan
Information for patients
Nuclear medicine is the use of small amounts of radioactive materials to gain images for diagnosis or treatment of various conditions or diseases. Images are created by administering a radioactive compound (“tracer”) which targets a particular region of interest. All tests are safe and non-invasive
Unlike other scanning methods such as X-rays, nuclear medicine test provides information about physiology and function.
Your doctor has requested a Bone Scan for you and in this leaflet we describe what is involved.
Please read through everything very carefully.
What is this study going to show?
The purpose of this study is to obtain pictures of your bones. This will help your doctor diagnose your condition and give you appropriate treatment.
Please allow approximately four to six hours for the study.
Is the radioactivity harmful?
Your test will involve the use of a small amount of ionising radiation (similar to a CT scan) and the risk associated with this is low. The main benefit of the test is making the correct diagnosis, so you can get the treatment that is right for you. This benefit is far greater than the small risk of radiation.
Preparing for the study
No specific preparation is required. You may eat and drink as normal.
What does the study involve?
Radioactive Tracer Injection
At the beginning of the study we will inject a small amount of radioactive tracer into a vein in your arm. We may take some early images for 15 minutes of the blood flow to your bone. You will be given a time to return for your bone scan approximately 3-4 hours later by the technologist administering your injection.
Waiting Period
During the waiting period between the injection and scan, we would like you to drink at least five glasses of liquid and to empty your bladder frequently. This will make the pictures clearer and flush out any excess radioactivity from your body. You may eat normally and leave the department while waiting
Bone Scan
Before the bone scan you will be required to remove any items of jewellery or metal objects.
You will lie on the scanning bed and pictures of your bones will be taken using a gamma camera. The camera will be close to your body, and you will need to stay as still as possible. Scanning can take about 45 minutes to 1.5 hours.
How long does the test take?
Your stay with us will be in between 4-6 hours. You will have time in between to leave the department if you wish to.
Further information
Please do not hesitate to ask a member of staff in the department if you have any questions.
If you are currently on any medication please continue having them. If possible please bring you list of medications with you.
Appointment Information
PLEASE RING US TO CONFIRM/RESCHEDULE YOUR APPOINTMENT NOW.
Unconfirmed Appointments are CANCELLED, 020 3315 8415
Can I bring a friend with me?
Yes, although some parts of your test may require your friend to sit outside the examination room. Please do NOT bring children or pregnant women (unless the test is for the child).
What measures I have to take?
We advise patients to drink plenty of fluids to flush the remaining radioactivity out of the body. As you will be slightly radioactive for 24 hours after your injection we may advise you to avoid close and prolonged contact with pregnant women and small children.
What happens to the study results?
A report will be sent to your consultant doctor within two weeks. Unfortunately you will not receive results on the day of your test.
What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you believe that you may be pregnant or if you are breastfeeding it is important that you contact the department as soon as possible before your test, as it may need to be rescheduled.
Contact information
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital
Nuclear Medicine Department
1st Floor, Lift Bank D (within main X-Ray department)
T: 020 3315 8415