Renal perfusion scintiscan
Key points
- A renal perfusion scintiscan is a nuclear medicine test that uses a small amount of a radioactive substance (radioisotope) to image the kidneys and detect clinically significant narrowing of the arteries that supply them (renal artery stenosis).
- Before the scan you will be asked to drink plenty of water, as it is important to be well hydrated.
- You will be asked to drink plenty of water before the scan.
- The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust.
Alternative names
Renal perfusion scintigraphy; Radionuclide renal perfusion scan
Definition
A renal perfusion scintiscan is a nuclear medicine test that uses a small amount of a radioactive substance (radioisotope) to image the kidneys and detect clinically significant narrowing of the arteries that supply them (renal artery stenosis).
How the test is performed
Before the scan you will be asked to drink plenty of water, as it is important to be well hydrated. Shortly before the test, you will be given a medication called an ACE inhibitor, either orally or intravenously (through a vein). This is a drug used to treat High blood pressure. It is used in the renal scan to increase the likelihood of identifying a clinically significant renal artery stenosis.
Soon after the ACE inhibitor is given, you are asked to lie on the scanner table and a small amount of radioisotope is injected into a vein. The kidneys are then scanned for approximately 30 minutes. The images are taken as the radioactive material flows through the renal arteries and into the kidneys. It is very important to remain still throughout the examination.
Approximately 10 minutes after the radioisotope is injected, a diuretic, usually furosemide, is given intravenously. Like the ACE inhibitor, the diuretic increases the accuracy of the test.
After the scan, no recovery time is required. You will be asked to drink plenty of fluids to help excrete the radioactive material from your body.
How to prepare for the test
There is no need for fasting or special diet. You will be asked to drink plenty of water before the scan.
If you are currently taking an ACE inhibitor for High blood pressure, you may be asked to discontinue your medication before the examination. Always consult with your health care provider before discontinuing any medication.
You may be asked to wear a hospital gown. Remove all jewelry and metallic objects before the scan.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
- Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
Written and revised by
David Cohen, M.D.
Our doctors write and review articles for accuracy and keep them up to date.
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