SKELETAL IMAGING
Functional imaging to evaluate bone activity, injury, and disease
Explore our diagnostic imaging services
A nuclear bone scan is a diagnostic imaging exam used to evaluate bone metabolism and activity. Unlike standard X-rays that show bone structure, bone scans highlight areas of increased or decreased bone activity, helping detect conditions related to healing, inflammation, infection, tumor growth, or bone damage.
Bone scans are commonly used to assess unexplained bone pain, stress fractures, sports injuries, arthritis, and certain cancers affecting the bones.
A nuclear bone scan is performed in two parts. During the first phase, a small amount of radiopharmaceutical is injected into a vein, similar to having blood drawn. In some cases, images of blood flow may be taken immediately after the injection.
You will then return for imaging approximately 2 to 5 hours later, allowing the radiopharmaceutical time to localize in the bones. During this waiting period, you are free to leave the clinic and resume normal activities. When you return, imaging typically takes between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the area being examined.
Identify stress fractures and sports-related injuries
Evaluate back pain and unexplained bone pain
Detect inflammation or infection in bone tissue
Assess arthritis and degenerative bone conditions
Detect bone tumors or metastatic disease
Monitor bone healing and disease progression
The amount of radioactive material used is minimal, and side effects are rare. Bone scans are considered safe and have been used clinically for many decades.
Physicians: These can be taken to any licensed facility providing healthcare services including hospitals and IHFs. Please click the button below to download an editable .pdf copy of our requisition and send it with your clients before their appointment.
