Bone Scans: A Key Diagnostic Tool for Bone Health
Looking after your bones is important for general health, but problems can sometimes develop without you realising it, and if left untreated, they can lead to very serious issues. A bone scan (scintigraphy) is a powerful tool for the diagnosis of bone changes in an early phase and for the timely initiation of treatment. Unlike conventional X-rays or an MRI, a bone scan shows what is happening with the bones metabolically, so it can be highly sensitive for picking up fractures, infections, and even the spread of cancer.
At Chase Lodge Hospital, our experts use the latest bone scanning methods to provide accurate diagnosis. Knowing how this process works and why it might be suggested can put patients at ease as they make their way through their bone health experience.
What is a Bone Scan?
A bone scan is a nuclear medicine study used to look at bone structure and function. It includes injecting a small amount of a radioactive tracer into your bloodstream, which gets taken up by bones. Areas of greater metabolic activity (as found in fractures, infections, or tumours) take up more tracer and will appear as “hot spots” on the scan.
Whereas X-rays are limited to imaging bone structure, a bone scan detects new bone activity, which is why it is good at detecting issues that may not be apparent on traditional imaging. It is also not an MRI, which looks at soft tissue, not bone metabolism.
Why is a Bone Scan Done?
Indications for a bone scan may include the following:
- Bone metastasis diagnosis—If cancer has metastasised to the bones (common in breast, prostate, and lung cancer), a bone scan can detect it early.
- Diagnosis of bone infections (osteomyelitis)—Like tumours, infections can cause inflammation that can be easily seen on a bone scan.
- Finding unexplained bone pain—When X-rays do not provide a clear finding, a bone scan can help identify the cause of the pain.
- Finding hidden fractures—Stress fractures, small breaks that can’t be seen on X-rays—can show up.
- Bone disease – Arthritis, such as Paget’s disease or avascular necrosis, may be evaluated.
MIQ Radioisotopes at Chase Lodge Hospital will consider whether a bone scan is required, and only if your symptoms and medical history warrant it.
How Is the Procedure Done?
There are several stages to a bone scan, and it’s safe and isn’t painful:
- Tracer Injection—A small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein, most frequently in the arm.
- Interval Phase (2–4 hours)—The tracer clears and becomes trapped in the bone. Patients are instructed to drink water to eliminate excess tracer.
- Scanning—The patient is positioned on a tabletop, and images of the skeleton are taken with a gamma camera. The test can take 30 to 60 minutes, and patients must remain still for accurate results.
There is no preparation required, but it is best if you remove metal objects and wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Interpreting the Results
The images are then analysed by a Radiologist:
- Hot spots are signs of increased bone activity caused by fractures, infections or tumours.
- Decreased activity in cold spots can be indicative of poor blood supply, or even bone death.
Bone scans are very sensitive, but more tests, such as biopsies or MRIs, may be necessary for an actual diagnosis. Our experienced radiologists provide accurate interpretation to help you effectively plan treatment at Chase Lodge Hospital.
Risks and Safety
Bone scans are relatively safe, involving only low levels of radiation, similar to having a routine X-ray. Side effects are usually rare, but there are some patients who may be affected by:
- Minor allergy to the shooting agent.
- Discomfort on the injection site may be felt temporarily.
- Pregnant or breastfeeding mothers must inform their doctor, and additional measures may need to be taken.
Conclusion
Bone scans are essential in management of bone disorders, giving the possibility of prompt early detection and improved treatment results. When evaluating for fractures, infections, or spreading cancer, this test gives important information that other imaging exams may overlook.
If your physician tells you that you need a bone scan, appreciate that this is a safe and effective diagnostic manoeuvre. Look no further than Chase Lodge Hospital for specialist care and high-quality imaging services.
For more information or to schedule a consultation, contact an experienced healthcare provider now.
