Dynamic renal scintigraphy
Dynamic renal scintigraphy is a nuclear imaging scan that allows detailed evaluation of the kidney size, form, position and function. The study makes use of Tc99m-EC isotopic tracer (technetium-99m-labeled ethylenodicysteine). The tracer is taken up by the kidney tissue and quickly excreted into the urine, thanks to which non-invasive and precise assessment of the kidney function is possible. The administered isotope doses are low, thus the patient radiation exposure during the scan is negligibly small. Therefore dynamic renal scintigraphy is often used in the diagnostics of urinary tract diseases in children, even newborns.
Indications for the scan:
- renal vascular disorders,
- nephritis,
- disorders in urinary excretion from kidneys, ureters or bladder (hydronephrosis),
- congenital kidney abnormalities (renal agenesis or dysplasia, hypoplasia or hyperplasia, renal ectopia, atypical form, hydronephrosis),
How should I prepare for the scan?
- no fasting is required before the procedure,
- you can take all your medication as usual,
- please bring your medical records (incl. other medical imaging results and especially previous scintigraphy) to the appointment with you.
Pregnancy and breast feeding.
How is the scan performed?
A patient needs to drink extra fluid 20-30 minutes prior to the imaging. Our nurses will advise each patient individually on the volume to drink, as well as the time to begin drinking. Scintigraphic images are recorded immediately after the intravenous administration of the radiopharmaceutical. The study is performed in the supine position and takes 20 to 60 minutes.
What do I need to do after the scan?
- increase fluid intake for 24 hours to speed up tracer elimination,
- avoid contact with children and pregnant women for 24 hours,
- if the renal scan was performed on a baby: please remove the baby’s diaper containing radioactive urine before returning home and leave it in the clinic bathroom.
