Imaging Center
Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan
Purpose: A Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan is a diagnostic imaging procedure used to detect blood clots in the lungs.
Preparation: A Lung Scan does not require any advance preparation. You must have a chest x-ray within 24 hours of this exam. Prior to your exam, a Nuclear Medicine Technician will explain the procedure and answer any questions you have. If you think you are pregnant, please tell the technologist before your exam.
What to Expect:
Part 1 - Ventilation: The technologist will instruct you to breathe in a radioactive aerosol. Several images will then be acquired from various angles around the chest. This is used to evaluate the airflow into your lungs.
Part 2 - Perfusion: The technologist will inject a radioactive isotope into a vein in your arm. Several images will be acquired from various angles around the chest. This will evaluate the blood flow to your lungs.
Post Exam Information: Your images will be reviewed by a Radiologist and the results of your exam will be forwarded to your physician. Your physician will be able to discuss the results of your exam with you.
Time Frame: 90 minutes
Contact for additional information: Rusk County Memorial Hospital Imaging Services Department at 715-532-5561 extension 244.