Bone Scintigraphy Examination Overview

Bone scintigraphy is a radiological exam used to diagnose fractures, inflammation, and cancer lesions. It involves injecting a radioactive tracer that highlights metabolic activity in bones. Patients do not need special preparation but must inform if pregnant. The exam includes a tracer injection, a waiting period, and imaging. The gamma camera captures skeletal images, and results are analyzed by a radiologist and sent to the referring doctor.

What is the primary purpose of bone scintigraphy?

• To check for lung capacity.

• To assess and diagnose skeletal diseases and pathologies.

• To measure blood pressure.

• To perform a heart scan.

What should a patient inform the staff about before undergoing bone scintigraphy?

• If they have a cold.

• If they have a broken arm.

• If they have a headache.

• If they are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What is administered to the patient before the bone scintigraphy examination?

• A painkiller.

• A sedative.

• A small dose of radioactive tracer.

• A dose of antibiotics.

What is the role of the radioactive tracer in bone scintigraphy?

• To increase bone density.

• To reduce bone pain.

• To detect areas of abnormal activity within the skeleton.

• To enhance the color of the bones.

What must a patient do during the bone scintigraphy examination?

• Move around frequently.

• Remain completely still.

• Eat a snack.

• Talk to the technician.

What does the gamma camera do during the examination?

• It emits sound waves.

• It detects radiation emitted by the tracer.

• It measures blood pressure.

• It takes blood samples.

How long does the bone scintigraphy examination take after the waiting period?

• Approximately 2 hours.

• Approximately 1 hour.

• Approximately 3 hours.

• Approximately 30 minutes.

What happens to the images after the bone scintigraphy examination?

• They are discarded.

• They are posted online.

• They are sent to the patient's family.

• They are processed and sent to the referring doctor.

What should a patient do if they have questions after the examination?

• Wait for the doctor to call.

• Search online.

• Ask the staff.

• Ignore them.

Are there any special precautions needed after the bone scintigraphy examination?

• Yes, avoid sunlight.

• Yes, avoid eating.

• No, there are no special precautions.

• Yes, avoid exercise.