Bone scans are performed for assessment of renal anatomy and function. A small amount of a radiotracer that specifically targets the kidneys is injected through an IV in the arm and pictures of the kidneys and bladder are taken over 30 minutes. In some cases additional pictures are taken after the administration of a diuretic.
We offer the following renal scanning procedures:
- Standard Renogram – Using Tc99m-MAG3 we are able to measure renal flow and function
- Diuretic (lasix) renogram – to evaluate for obstruction
- Captopril Renal scan – renal artery stenosis and renovascular hypertension
- Renal transplant scan – to assess for complications such as acute tubular necrosis (ATN), leak, or obstruction. Using the combined SPECT/CT scanner we are able to localize the problem, often of great help to the urologists
- Pediatric urology
- Diuretic (lasix) renogram – to assess for hydronephrosis. Pediatric nurses are available on site to help with special precautions that may be necessary for certain children. Utmost care is taken to make the procedure smooth and comfortable with the active cooperation of parents
- DMSA scans – are also performed to check for kidney infection and scarring in children. These procedures have a very low radiation exposure and are preferred over more invasive procedures in children.
- Nuclear VCUG (voiding cystourethrogram) – to check for urinary reflux, a predisposing factor for pyelonephritis.