About Nuclear Medicine Bone Scans
A nuclear medicine bone scan is a diagnostic test used to evaluate abnormalities involving bones and joints and to detect infection, bone lesions, degenerative bone disorders or fractures.

What to expect
This is a two-part exam. First, during a 15-minute visit, a radioactive tracer will be injected into a vein. In some cases, images will be taken during the injection. You will be asked to return two to four hours after the injection for imaging. Within that time, please drink two to four glasses of fluid—water, sodas and coffee are all acceptable. Empty your bladder as frequently as possible. When you return, a scan will be taken using a gamma camera. You will lie comfortably on a scan table during the exam. That portion of the exam will take about 30 to 60 minutes.

After the exam, the technologists will process your images using a computer. An RAS physician will evaluate the images and dictate a report, which will be forwarded to the ordering physician. You will learn the results of the exam from your doctor.

If you are nursing an infant or may possibly be pregnant, please inform your referring physician before your scheduled appointment.

Patient preparation
This examination does not require any dietary restrictions. You may eat and drink as you wish, take all of your medications, and drive yourself to and from the appointment. Undressing is not required for these images as long as your clothing has no large metal buttons or zippers.

Side effects and complications
Diagnostic nuclear medicine exams produce no known complications.

Follow-up care
No follow-up care is required for diagnostic nuclear medicine exams. Contact your doctor for any further instructions.