Renal scintigraphy

Nuclear Medicine studies (scintigraphy) are methods of Diagnostic Imaging that use radioactive isotopes. They are prescribed to detect both morphological and especially functional alterations of the different organs and systems.

Depending on the types of radiotracers used, scintigraphies allow visualizing the structure and function of different organs and systems.

Renal or DMSA scan can help determine if the kidneys are healthy and working properly.

What does it consist of?

Scintigraphy is a nuclear medicine technique that consists of injecting small doses of radioactive material (tracer) to measure the functioning of different organs and systems. The tracer, which releases gamma rays, travels through the blood and is absorbed by the organs.

Subsequently, a camera with gamma radiation detectors makes it possible to obtain images of the highlighted areas.

This test can help determine if the kidneys are healthy and working properly. In addition, it can provide useful information in the case of assessing the need for a kidney transplant.

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When is it recommended?

Who is renal scintigraphy intended for?

Your doctor may recommend a renal scintigraphy in the following cases:

To assess kidney function and evaluate their filtering capacity.
To detect possible obstructions in the urinary tract or alterations in urine flow.
To evaluate renal perfusion and blood supply to each kidney.
To identify renal scarring or previous kidney damage, especially in recurrent urinary tract infections.
To assess the function of each kidney separately, particularly before surgery or after a kidney transplant.

Preparation for the test

Instructions

In general, scintigraphy tests last approximately 3 hours. A contrast agent will be administered upon arrival, and the test—which takes between 10 and 15 minutes—cannot be performed until it has taken effect. Patients may choose to wait in one of our rooms or walk around the surrounding area while waiting for the tracer to be absorbed.

Medical professionals

The specialists who will assist you at CreuBlanca

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