What is a Renal Scan and what does it do?
Renal Scan
- This scan determines the number, size, and position of the kidneys.
- It can detect renal cortical scars, masses, lacerations, contusions, abscesses, and inflammation.
- It can evaluate renal function and perfusion, as well as differential renal function.
- A Renal Scan is indicated for the evaluation and follow-up of renal obstruction, evaluation of acute and chronic renal failure, and evaluation and follow-up of renal transplant.
Renal Scan with Lasix™
The diuretic augmented renal scan is an excellent test for distinguishing non-obstructive versus obstructive dilatation of the renal pelvis. This test can also determine if surgery has been successful in relieving a known obstruction.
Who performs the test?
The Renal Scan will be performed by a Nuclear Medicine Technologist. The Nuclear Technologist is certified by the NMTCB (Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board), and/or the ARRT (The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists). All of the Nuclear Medicine Technologists at Jackson Hospital are licensed in the state of Florida.
Where does it take place?
The Renal Scan will be performed in the Nuclear Medicine Department at Jackson Hospital. This is located in Radiology at the main hospital.
How long does it take?
The total time of the exam is 45 minutes.
What can I do to make it a success?
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Remove any metallic objects before your scan.
- Be well hydrated if possible.
- Do not take any diuretics 3-7 Days before your exam (per physician’s recommendation).
- Bring a copy of your physicians order with you to your exam.
What should I do before the exam?
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Remove any metallic objects before your scan.
- Be well hydrated if possible.
- Do not take any diuretics 3-7 Days before your exam (per physician’s recommendation).
- Bring a copy of your physicians order with you to your exam.
What happens during the exam?
Renal Scan without Lasix:
- You will be asked to empty your pockets and remove any metallic objects from your person.
- There will be an intravenous injection when the scan is started.
- You will then lie on the imaging table, and there will be a detector that scans your kidneys and urinary system in general.
- The total time of the exam is 45 minutes.
Renal Scan with Lasix:
- You will be asked to empty your pockets and remove any metallic objects from your person.
- An intravenous line (IV) will be started before the test.
- There will be an intravenous injection when the scan is started.
- You will then lie on the imaging table, and there will be a detector that scans your kidneys and urinary system in general.
- 10 minutes into the scan 40 mg of Lasix™ will be given through the IV access.
- The total time of the exam is 45 minutes.
What should I do after the exam?
Your images will be processed after your scan. They will then be submitted to the Radiologist for review and interpretation. The written results will be forwarded to the ordering physician when the radiologist’s report is complete.
Contact Information:
Hospital (main operator): (850) 526-2200
Nuclear Medicine Department: (850) 718-2584
Radiology Department (at hospital): (850) 718-2580
4250 Hospital Drive • Marianna, Florida 32446-1917 • 850-526-2200