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Bone Scan Research Paper

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Bone Scan

A bone scan is an imaging study of your bones. It is used to identify and diagnose bone problems. You may have this test to check for:
• Cancer in your bones.
• A broken or cracked bone.
• Bone infection.
• A cause of bone pain.
• Certain other bone diseases.
For this procedure, a small amount of a radioactive substance (radiotracer) is injected into your blood. Your bones will absorb the radiotracer for a short time. The radiotracer gives off radioactive energy. This energy can be captured by a type of camera that makes images of your bones (scintigrams). Abnormal bones will take up too much or too little of the radiotracer. This will show up in the images.

LET YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER KNOW ABOUT:
• Any allergies …show more content…

• If you are breastfeeding.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
Generally, this is a safe procedure. However, problems may occur, including:
• Exposure to radiation (small amount).
• Bleeding at the injection site.
• Infection at the injection site. This is rare.
• Allergic reaction to the radiotracer. Severe reactions may cause a rash or breathing trouble. These reactions are rare.

BEFORE THE PROCEDURE
• Ask your health care provider about changing or stopping your regular medicines. This is especially important if you are taking diabetes medicines or blood thinners.
• Do not take any medicines that contain bismuth for 4 days before the scan.
• Do not have X-rays that use barium contrast material for 4 days before the scan.
• Do not wear metallic jewelry to the scan.
• Do not drink very much for 4 hours before the scan. You will need to drink several glasses of water at the beginning of the scan.

PROCEDURE
• An IV tube will be inserted into one of your veins.
• You will lie down on an exam table.
• The radiotracer will be injected through the IV tube. You may feel a cold sensation in your arm.
• Some pictures may be taken right after the

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