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A bone scan is a diagnostic imaging test used to detect abnormalities in the bones. This test is essential for identifying issues such as fractures, infections, or cancers that may not be visible on standard X-rays. Patients may need a bone scan if they are experiencing unexplained bone pain, have a history of cancer with a risk of metastasis to the bones, or have symptoms suggesting bone infection or bone injury.
During the process, a small quantity of radioactive material is injected into a vein. This material—referred to as a tracer—moves through the blood and builds up in regions with elevated bone activity. The distribution of the tracer is then captured on film by specialised cameras, which enables medical professionals to spot aberrant bone metabolism. A useful diagnostic and monitoring tool for a variety of bone-related disorders, the bone scan facilitates prompt and efficient treatment planning.
Manipal Hospitals provide comprehensive bone scan services to accurately diagnose bone conditions. Using advanced imaging technology, our skilled radiologists ensure the precise detection of abnormalities. Manipal Hospitals' expert team interprets the results to guide effective treatment plans, offering patients timely and targeted care. Our commitment to using cutting-edge technology and providing personalised support ensures high-quality outcomes for bone health issues.
A bone scan may be necessary to detect stress fractures and other abnormalities not seen on regular X-rays, or if you have signs of osteomyelitis, a history of cancer with possible bone metastases, or bone pain. Furthermore, bone scans can be used to track disorders connected to the bones, such as arthritis, or to assess how well current therapies are working. This thorough imaging aids medical professionals in correctly diagnosing and treating a range of bone disorders.
A radioactive tracer is injected into an arm vein during a bone scan. After that, you will have to wait for the tracer to enter your bloodstream and build up in your bones. Following this time of waiting, you will lie down on a table and have your complete skeleton imaged by a specialised camera. The radiation released by the tracer is detected by the camera, which highlights the regions with strong bone activity.
Use these tips to be ready for a bone scan:
Diet: Before the surgery, you can usually consume food and liquids as usual.
Hydration: To help remove the tracer from your system, sip on lots of water both before and after the test.
Clothing: Dress comfortably for the scan; you might be required to change into a hospital gown.
Jewellery and metal objects: Take off all watches, jewellery, and metal objects before the scan since they may impede the imaging process.
Inform your physician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any allergies, particularly to drugs or dyes.
Bone scans have very little risk and are usually safe. The extremely tiny quantity of radioactive tracer used is usually eliminated from your body in a day or two. Reactions with the tracer that are allergic are quite uncommon. Compared to a typical X-ray or CT scan, this method uses a lot less radiation. Notify your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as further safety measures could be required.
In most cases, a bone scan is not painful. When the radioactive tracer gets injected into your vein, it could hurt a little bit, much like a regular blood test. The actual scanning procedure is usually comfortable and consists of lying still on a table while images are taken. Although prolonged immobility may cause some discomfort for certain people, the process is generally painless and well-tolerated.
The findings of your bone scan should normally be available to you in a few days. Your physician will examine the pictures and analyse the results. During a follow-up session, they will go over the results with you and explain what they mean for your health, as well as any required treatment plans or future actions. Your doctor could get in touch with you sooner if you experience any unusual symptoms or have any concerns.
Most of your regular activities can be resumed right away following a bone scan. The harmless radioactive tracer used in the scan is typically eliminated from your body in a day or two. It is advised to stay hydrated to facilitate the faster removal of the tracer from your body. Your daily schedule, which includes work, exercise, and social engagements, is often unrestricted. Make sure to carefully follow any special directions that your healthcare professional may have given you. After the scan, always notify your doctor if you have any unusual symptoms.
Before a bone scan, you can usually carry on with your usual drug routine. Still, it's important to inform your doctor about anything you are presently taking, including vitamins and prescriptions. This involves over-the-counter, prescription, and herbal supplementation, as well as vitamins. To be sure that none of these substances may affect the test or the radioactive tracer used during the scan, your healthcare professional needs to know this information. If any special instructions are needed for your case, they will provide you with those instructions.
A bone scan is not usually used to diagnose osteoporosis; however, it can identify regions of increased or decreased bone activity. Rather, a DEXA scan, a test for bone density, is more frequently used for this kind of analysis. By providing exact measurements of bone mineral density, DEXA scans help medical professionals evaluate bone health and make accurate diagnoses of osteoporosis.
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