Skeletal scintigraphy
Skeletal scintigraphy is performed to evaluate bone metabolism. One benefit of the examination is the possibility of evaluating the entire skeleton during whole-body scintigraphy. Although radiation exposure is lower compared to diagnostic radiology, scintigraphy usually has to be combined with radiographs, computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging to enable exact diagnosis. For this reason skeletal scintigraphy is usually performed in addition to cross sectional imaging (X-ray, CT or MRI).
In the case of skeletal diseases, especially if magnetic resonance imaging cannot be performed:
- Rheumatic diseases
- Degenerative changes
- For patients who cannot be examined with magnetic resonance imaging, for detection of “hidden” bone fractures and for assessing fracture age
- To assess the spread of metastases in cases of cancer
- For inflammatory bone changes
- To detect or rule out loosening or inflammation of joint prostheses
- Bone circulatory disturbances (e.g. Sudeck’s atrophy)
Skeletal scintigraphy is performed to evaluate bone metabolism. Therefore a radioactive tracer (Tc-99m marked phosphonate) must be administered intravenously before the examination. This tracer accumulates temporarily in the entire skeletal system. Then special cameras are used to take whole-body shots which can reveal points of increased accumulation.
If possible, a large quantity of fluid should be consumed the day before the examination. At least one litre of fluid should also be consumed before administration of the radioactive tracer until the performance of skeletal scintigraphy; this enables quicker excretion of the radionuclide and reduction of radiation exposure. We will be happy to provide beverages.
Modern research method
Imaging is carried out using a state-of-the-art "double-head camera", which enables particularly fast and precise images of the organs. For the examination, a radiopharmaceutical is introduced into the body in extremely small quantities, which thus participates in the body's metabolism and serves as a contrast medium. In this way, metabolic processes in the living body can be examined.
Concentrated knowledge and experience
The challenge in nuclear medicine is to bring together the modalities, to assess the appearance of organs in conventional radiological diagnostics and the function of the organs from a nuclear medicine point of view. Therefore, all of our experts in nuclear medicine are also specialists in diagnostic radiology.
We are here for you.
At our various locations, we are at your disposal in the competence area for nuclear medical diagnostics: with detailed advice, precise examinations and precise diagnoses.
Do you have questions about nuclear medicine examinations? We are happy to help. Call us on: 089 550 596 0 or write to us using our contact form.