Renal Scan/Renogram

This exam shows how well the kidneys are functioning.

Preparation

• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment with an order/prescription if your doctor has given one to you.
• Bring a list of current medications.
• Please arrive well hydrated, 2-3 glasses (16 to 24 ounces) of water, before exam.

Procedure

• You will be asked to drink some water upon arrival in the nuclear medicine department.
• An intravenous (IV) site will be started in one of your arms.
• You will be placed on a scanning table with a gamma camera located under the table in position to image the kidneys.
• The nuclear medicine technologist will inject a small amount of radioactive tracer through the IV site and begin the imaging process immediately.
• Imaging will require you to lie flat on your back completely still for 30-40 minutes.
• It is possible that the doctor may order the exam with a diuretic, which may require additional imaging.
• Total time for the exam may be up to one hour.

After the procedure

• You will follow up with ordering doctor.

Considerations

• If you are pregnant or suspect you may be, contact your referring doctor.
• Tell the technologist if you are planning to travel out of the country.
• For Macomb patients: Please note that our Nuclear Medicine equipment has a table weight limit of 500 lbs.