What is it?

  • The purpose of this examination is to study the skeleton in order to find any functional abnormalities. Unlike traditional radiographies, this method does not show the anatomical structure of the body, instead it show how it functions. Therefore, some abnormalities may be detected in the scintigraphy and not in the radiography.
  • A small quantity of a radioactive substance (Biphosphonate marked with Techenetium99m) is injected and fixes on the bone. The radiation that is emitted from this substance is detected by the Gamma Camera which enables the creation of a detailed functional map of the skeleton.


Preparation for the exam

No specific preparation is needed for this examination and you do not even need to refrain from eating or drinking. If you are a female, in a state of pregnancy or with an unusually late menstrual cycle, it is imperative that you alert the staff before any injection is performed. If you are in the middle of another treatment you do not have to alter it in any way in order to be able to undergo this examination.


The examination process

  • A substance is injected into the vein then one or two images can be taken. This takes between 10 – 15 minutes.
  • Then a period of 2 to 4 hours is necessary for the substance to fix itself to the bone. During this period you may be allowed to leave the premises. At this stage it is important that you drink a lot so as to evacuate all the substance in the body that did not bond to the bone.
  • After this period is over, the examination can begin. You will be asked to lie down and not move, then the gamma camera is set into motion. The camera will move from the patient’s head to toes in order to produce an image of the whole skeleton.
  • Then, should it be needed, some extra images can be taken. This typically takes between 30 – 45 minutes.


Is the examination painful?

The examination does not induce any pain to the patient. During the injection there is a slight pinching sensation, just as when a blood sample is taken.


Is the examination dangerous?

The substance that is injected is generally associated with a low rate of adverse reactions. The quantity of radioactive substance is limited meaning that you will be exposed to the same amount of radiation as in a typical radiography scan.


After the examination

  • The results from the examination are sent directly to the doctor that prescribed it.
  • You can eat normally and go about your daily activities.
  • It is recommended that you continue to drink a lot during 3 to 4 hours after the examination so as to make sure that all the radioactive substance is expelled from your body.
  • If you are breast feeding, it will be necessary that you interrupt this act for about 24 hours.
  • No specific precautions are needed regarding surrounding environment except if there is a pregnant women in your vicinity. If this is the case the doctor will be able to give you some complementary precautions.