Renal Scan

A renal scan is a test that takes pictures of the child’s kidneys and shows how they are working. The test is done in the Nuclear Medicine Department, part of the Radiology Department.

What is a renal scan?

A renal scan is a nuclear medicine test that provides images of the kidneys to help determine their level of functioning and if there are any obstructions. They can be very important in the diagnosis of hydronephrosis and UPJ obstructions. Our team injects it through an IV into the child. A special camera is then used to take photos of the kidneys.

The test places a tracer in the urine and follows it as it goes down into the bladder. In patients who have any blockage or obstruction in the urinary tract, the test shows that the tracer does not drain. This test can take up to an hour and a half.

How can I prepare my child for a renal scan?

Before arriving for the test, explain the procedure to your child to help them feel more comfortable. Ensure they drink plenty of liquids the day before to stay well-hydrated. While waiting for the test, your child can eat unless the doctor advises otherwise, and babies are allowed to have a bottle. Parents are welcome to stay with their child during the test for support and reassurance.

What happens during the scan?

1. Your child will lie on a padded table in the Nuclear Medicine Department. Kids under 8 will be secured on a “papoose board” to help them stay still.
2. Your child will be strapped to the board, which does not hurt. The straps keep them from moving or falling.
3. An IV (a small tube in a vein) will be placed to give fluids.
4. Your child will also get a catheter (a tube in the bladder) to keep the bladder empty. This helps the doctors see the kidneys clearly. The area will be cleaned before the tube is put in, and it might feel a little uncomfortable.
5. A small amount of safe radioactive material will be injected through the IV.
6. Your child will be moved into a large donut-shaped camera. The camera will not touch or hurt them.
7. Pictures will be taken while your child stays very still. The test lasts about an hour.
8. Once the test is finished, the catheter and IV will be removed.

Is the test safe?

CHOC commits to expose our patients to the lowest doses of radiation possible for every procedure.

• Nuclear medicine has been used on infants and children for over 40 years with no known adverse effects from the low doses employed.
• Technetium-99m MAG3 has a tiny amount of radioactive molecules in it.
• The camera used to obtain the images does not produce any radiation.

Are there any limitations for my child after the test is complete?

Your child can resume all usual activities and eat and drink normally after a renal exam.

How do I learn the renal scan results?

Once your test has been completed here at the Center, the child’s family will be notified with the results within two weeks. If you have not heard from our office with test results, please call us at 714-509-3919. If your study was done at a different facility please contact our office upon its completion, so we may obtain the results to review for you.