Diagnostic Tests
Bone Scan
A bone scan is a test used to show trouble spots on the spine. A
radioactive chemical, sometimes called a "tracer", is injected into the
bloodstream. The chemical quickly attaches itself to areas of the
skeleton that are busy making new bone. Several hours after the
injection, pictures are taken of the skeleton.
A bone scan is very useful when it is unclear exactly where the
problem is in the skeleton. It offers the ability to take a picture of
the entire skeleton and pinpoint any problem areas. Concentrations of
the chemical appear as dark spots on the film. In an adult, this
usually indicates that there is a problem. The increased bone-making
activity is a response to the problem. For example, if there is a
fracture of the bone, bone cells will very quickly begin to make new
bone to try to repair it. Once these areas are located on the bone
scan, the doctor may order additional tests for specific information
about your condition.
A bone scan can show problems such as bone tumors, infection, and
fractures of the spine. It can also be used to determine bone density
and the bone-thinning condition of osteoporosis.
An intravenous line (IV) is started in your hand or arm. The chemical tracer
is injected
into the bloodstream through the IV. There is a waiting period of two
to three hours, while the chemical attaches itself to any areas of bone
that are undergoing rapid changes. Usually, you are free to leave and
come back after this period.
You will then be asked to lie or sit underneath a large "camera"
that takes pictures of your skeleton. Since the chemical tracer is
radioactive, it sends out radiation that can be captured by a special
camera. The camera is similar to a "Geiger counter" in that it uses
film to capture the radioactivity. The procedure takes 30-90 minutes.
The bone scan does not show details of the bones or soft tissue. It
simply shows how much the bone around a specific area is reacting to
the problem.
There is always the risk of an allergic reaction to anything injected into
the bloodstream. In this case, an allergic reaction to the chemical is uncommon.
The chemical is radioactive, but it disappears from the body very rapidly-within
hours.
|
