Radionuclide Bone Scan Wrists (NBWSBD)

Please complete your appointment details FROM YOUR APPOINTMENT LETTER and bring this leaflet with you.

What is ‘nuclear medicine?’

Nuclear medicine refers to the medical use of radioactive tracers for the diagnosis and sometimes treatment, of medical conditions.

Nuclear medicine tests are helpful to diagnose a wide variety of illnesses. The clinician that referred you to nuclear medicine will have already explained to you the reasons for having this test.

This leaflet is to explain your scan and provide you with some general information. The procedure will be fully explained to you when you attend. We are happy to provide additional information before hand and our contact details are on the back of this leaflet.

Benefits of nuclear medicine tests and are they dangerous?

Nuclear medicine procedures are commonly used diagnostic tools that utilise ionising radiation to obtain important clinical information.

There are small risks associated with the use of ionising radiation. Ionising radiation can cause cell damage that can, after many years or decades, contribute to the development of cancerous cells. This procedure carries only a very small chance of this happening to you.

Your doctor will have considered the risk and benefits of having the test before referring you to us. The benefits of the test outweigh the potential risk.

Will it hurt?

No more than a blood test. There are no side effects from the tracer injection, and no restrictions following the test. You will be able to continue with your usual daily activities.

What is a bone scan?

A bone scan shows the metabolism of your bones. It is more sensitive than x-rays for diagnosing many diseases of the bones and joints.

Do I need to prepare for the test?

No. You may eat and drink normally before the test, and continue taking any medication. However we recommend you increase your fluid intake (a few extra pints of water) between your injection and pictures and to empty your bladder frequently.

Avoid clothes with metal buttons. You may be asked to remove metal objects (buckles, coins, jewellery) while the pictures are being taken.

If you have any mobility issues please inform the department before attending so that we can make appropriate arrangements for you if necessary.

How is the test carried out?

There are two parts to every bone scan.

PART 1:

You will be given a small injection of a radioactive tracer, into a vein in your arm. At this stage we may perform a quick image of your wrists that will take up to 5 minutes. You will then be given a return time for Part 2.

WAIT:

There is a waiting period of between 2½hrs and 4hrs for the tracer to be absorbed into your bones. During this time you will be able to leave the department.

PART 2:

Once you return we will take another image of your wrists. The images are taken with you lying on a bed. You will need to lie still for up to 30 minutes. We can usually take your pictures without removing clothing.

Occasionally we may need to take an additional SPECT/CT scan but we will not be able to confirm this until after your initial images.

How long will the test take?

Up to five hours may be required from the injection to the end of the test depending on how many pictures we need to take.

What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is usual to avoid radioactive tests during pregnancy. Small amounts of some radioactive substances may appear in breast milk. Patients who are breast feeding and those that know, or suspect that they are pregnant should contact the department before attending to discuss this further and should also inform the department upon arrival.

What happens after the test?

You are free to go home or return to your ward. There are no restrictions following this test.

Your results will be reported and available from your referring clinician/ team or GP within 3 weeks after your appointment.

Family / friends

Due to the small size of the waiting area in Nuclear Medicine we ask that you please limit the number of people accompanying you for your visit.

Travelling abroad?

Please be aware that most airports have sensitive radiation monitors which detect very small amounts of radiation and may detect a residue trace from your test. We advise you keep and travel with your appointment letter if you are travelling within the next few days.

How to find / contact the department

The Nuclear Medicine department is located on level 3, in the outpatient end of the hospital. If you have any queries or cannot make your appointment please contact the department as soon as possible on 01223 217145.