What is a liver/spleen scan and when is it needed?
The radioactive tracer travels through your bloodstream and is absorbed by your liver/spleen. The test shows which areas of your liver are responsive and functioning, and any parts that aren’t absorbing the radiotracer. Liver scans are used to explore the cause of upper abdominal pain. They help spot lesions or damage and monitor the progression of liver disease.
Indications:
- Abdominal pain
- Chronic liver disease
- Liver or spleen size and configuration
- Focal nodular hyperplasia
- Accessory splenic tissue
What are the risks?
Please let the office know if you are pregnant and/or breastfeeding, as the radiotracers maybe harmful to a fetus.
The risk to other people is very low, so these scans are considered safe and effective ways to diagnose disease.
How do you prepare for a liver/spleen scan?
- No restrictions
- Wear comfortable clothing
- How does a liver/spleen scan work?
A small amount of radioactive material is injected into a vein in your arm. Once the radiotracer is injected, a special camera is used to take images of your liver/spleen, these images will take about 45 minutes
What should I expect after my liver/spleen scan?
It usually take 24-48 hours for your doctor to receive a report. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the radiotracer out of your body, what does not get flushed out of your body will decay out. There are no other restrictions.
