Information for Patients

A bone scan is a type of nuclear radiology procedure.  This means that a tiny amount of a radioactive substance is used during the procedure to assist in the examination of the bones.  The radioactive substance, called a radionuclide or tracer, will collect within the bone tissue at spots of abnormal physical and chemical change.

The radionuclide emits a type of radiation, called gamma radiation.  The gamma radiation is detected by a scanner, which processes the information into a picture of the bones.

The areas where the radionuclide collects are called "hot spots" and may indicate the presence of conditions such as arthritis, malignant bone tumours, metastatic bone cancer, bone infections, bone trauma not seen on ordinary x-rays and other conditions of the bone.

There is not usually any special preparation for the scan. You will be able to eat and drink normally and continue with any prescribed medication unless you are told otherwise. If you are or may be pregnant or are breast feeding please tell us before your scan.

The amount of radionuclide injected into your vein for the procedure is small enough that there is no need for precautions against radioactive exposure.  The injection of the tracer may cause some slight discomfort.  Allergic reactions to the tracer are rare, but may occur.

Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to medications, contrast dyes, or latex should notify the doctor or radiographer prior to the examination.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant, you should notify a member of staff due to the risk of injury to the fetus from a bone scan.  If you are breastfeeding, you should notify a member of staff as well.

When you arrive, report to X-ray Central Reception. During your appointment, a small dose of radioactivity is injected into a vein in your arm. This will only feel like a pin prick and lasts only for a minute or so. The injection will not make you feel sleepy or given you any other effects. After the injection you may have to wait anywhere from 1 to 3 hours, after which pictures will be taken with a gamma camera. The wait between the injection and the scan varies from a few minutes to a few hours - if the wait needs to more than one hour you will be able to leave the department.  You will not be hazardous to other people, as the tracer emits less radiation than a standard x-ray.

The pictures usually take half to one hour. During this time you will be lying down or sitting in a chair. Usually there will be no need to undress.

After the scan you can eat normally and go wherever you wish. You may be asked to drink plenty of fluids and empty your bladder frequently for 24-48 hours, to wash the radioactivity out of your body (this will also disappear naturally).

It is best to avoid cuddling your children for the rest of the day to avoid exposing them to unnecessary radiation.

The results of your examination will not be given to you on the same day, but will be forwarded to your consultant who will write to you or arrange an appointment.