The procedure for a bone scan typically involves several steps:
An injection of the radiotracer into a vein, usually in the arm. A waiting period, usually a few hours, to allow the radiotracer to circulate and be absorbed by the bones. The patient then lies down on a table while a specialized camera, known as a gamma camera, takes images of the entire skeleton.
The entire process is generally painless, though the injection might cause slight discomfort. Patients are usually advised to drink plenty of water to help flush out any remaining radiotracer from the body.
