HAVING A BONE SCAN

What will happen during the scan?

You do not have to get undressed for a bone scan. You will lie on the scanning table as the table slowly moves between two cameras taking the pictures of your bones. It takes about 25 minutes to complete the scan. The radiographer will stay with you whilst the pictures are being taken.

Is it claustrophobic?

No. The gamma camera is an open design.

What happens after the scan?

You can go back home or return to work. If you are an inpatient, you can return to the ward.

For the first 24 hours after your scan, we will ask you to

• Drink plenty of fluids
• Flush the toilet twice after use and remember to wash your hands
• Avoid contact with babies and small children.

After you leave the department, our doctor will look at the pictures and write a report. This takes some time but the doctor who referred you for the scan will normally receive the results with a week and they will be available for your next appointment.

Other scans

The Nuclear Medicine Department performs a variety of different scans.

If you would like further information about bone scans or other tests, the staff will be pleased to explain them in more detail. You can contact us on:

0151 334 1155 ext. 4770

Additionally, you can contact the Cancer Information and Support Centre at Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology for general information.

Telephone 0151 482 7722

Introduction

What is a bone scan?

What happens during the scan?