Radio-Nuclide Scanning| Indications, Equipment, Patient-Preparation

Radio-Nuclide scanning is a non-invasive test, which uses a gamma scintillation camera or rectilinear scanner to images of the organs after an IV injection of a radio-nuclide. The scintillation camera or scanner detects rays emitted by radio-nuclide (usual technetium 99m pertechnetate (99mTc) and converts them into images, which are then displayed on an oscilloscope screen.

Normally, the radio-nuclide cannot infuse the blood-brain barrier. However, if pathologic changes have destroyed the barrier, the radio-nuclide may concentrate in the abnormal area. Immediately after injections of the radio-nuclide, cerebral blood flow can also be evaluated.

Indications (R-NS)

  1. To detect an intracranial mass or vascular lesion
  2. To locate areas of ischemia, cerebral infarction, and intracerebral hemorrhage bleeding
  3. To evaluate the course of certain lesions postoperatively and during chemotherapy.
  4. To find out the physiological impairments of organs
  5. To rule out bony metastasis

Equipment

  1. Gamma scintillation camera, oscilloscope
  2. Radiopharmaceutical, tourniquet, 70% alcohol
  3. 19 G or 21 G sterile needle, 20ml syringe 

Preparation of the patient (R-NS)

  1. Explain to the patient that this test helps detect functional abnormalities in the body
  2. Inform him he need not restrict food or fluids
  3. Tell him that he will receive an injection of a radioactive drug
  4. Inform him that, who will perform the test and the duration of the procedure. Till the patient that he may feel a slight burning sensation at the injection site
  5. Describe a scanning machine and explained that it will move back and forth close to his body and may make some noise
  6. Reassure him that the procedure is painless and that the radiation causes no danger to him or his visitors and should be cleared from his body within 6 hours

Post-Procedure care (R-NS)

  • If a hematoma developed at the injection site, warm soaks may ease discomfort and aid resolution
  • Documentation

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