Overview
This procedure differs from a total body bone scan in that images are taken of a particular area of interest in both an arterial phase, a cellular (blush/blood pool) stage, and a normal static stage.
Indications
- Determination of abscesses such as osteomyelitis vs cellulitis of the soft tissue.
- Determining post-surgical necrosis of the bone.
- Determining aseptic necrotic areas in children.
- Diagnosis of early skeletal inflammatory disease.
- Evaluation of musculoskeletal trauma.
- Evaluation of painful joint prosthesis.
- Diagnosis of Reflux Sympathy Disease (RSD).
Study Description
The patient is transported to the imaging area and positioned under the camera with the suspected area and the corresponding contralateral area both in the camera field of view.
The radiopharmaceutical is then injected and dynamic images (a series of rapid, short duration images) are obtained to monitor and compare the blood flow to the suspected and normal area. Then a series of static images (individual pictures) are taken of the cellular or blush/blood pool phase of tracer distribution. These portions of the study will take approximately 15-30 minutes.
The patient may then leave and return 3 hours later for the delayed images that will take approximately 30 minutes.
Examination Time
- Initially 30 minutes for the perfusion and blood pool components.
- 3 hours later, 30 minutes for image acquisition.
Patient Preparation
- Ensure the patient is not pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Well hydrated prior to exam.