What is a Nuclear Renal Scan?

A Nuclear Renal Scan is an advanced imaging test that helps assess your kidney function, blood flow, and urine drainage. It uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to track kidney activity, helping doctors identify blockages, infections, or other kidney issues.

Why Would I Need a Nuclear Renal Scan?

Your doctor might recommend this test for:

• Detecting blockages like kidney stones or blocked ureters
• Assessing kidney function, especially before or after a transplant
• Diagnosing renal artery stenosis (narrowing of the arteries, reducing blood flow to kidneys)
• Evaluating congenital kidney issues (particularly in infants and children)
• Monitoring recovery after kidney surgery

Types of Nuclear Renal Scans

DTPA Scan

• Measures glomerular filtration rate (GFR)
• Evaluates kidney blood flow and urine drainage

MAG3 Scan

• More sensitive for obstructed kidneys
• Suitable for patients with poor kidney function

DMSA Scan

• Detects kidney scarring or damage (such as from infections)
• Identifies pyelonephritis (kidney infection)

How Does It Work?

• Tracer Injection – A small radioactive tracer is injected into your vein.
• Imaging – A camera tracks the tracer as it moves through your kidneys.
• Functional Analysis – Doctors assess:
  • Blood flow to kidneys
  • Filtration & urine drainage
  • Differences in function between the two kidneys

What Should I Do Before the Test?

• Hydrate well before your scan to improve image quality
• No fasting required – you can eat and drink normally
• Inform your doctor if you are:
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • Allergic to any substances
  • Taking any blood pressure medication (it may need adjusting)

What to Expect During the Procedure

• Total Time: 1 to 2 hours (depending on the type of scan)
• Scan Time: 30 to 45 minutes (you’ll need to lie still during the scan)
• Pain Level: Minimal (only an IV injection)
• Results: Available in 24 to 48 hours

After the Scan

• Drink plenty of water to help flush the tracer from your body
• No radiation risks – the tracer decays quickly and leaves your body within 24 hours
• Resume normal activities right away
• Follow up with your doctor for the next steps

Why Choose a Nuclear Renal Scan?

• More accurate than ultrasound or X-rays – It shows functional issues, not just structural ones.
• Early detection of kidney disease – Helps find problems before they become severe.
• Safe & non-invasive – Uses low levels of radiation (less than a CT scan).
• Guides treatment decisions – Helps doctors plan surgery, prescribe medications, or decide on other treatments.

Who Should Get This Test?

• Patients with unexplained kidney pain
• Individuals with recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or kidney infections
• Pre-transplant evaluations for both donors and recipients
• Those with high blood pressure related to kidney issues

Book your Nuclear Renal Scan today for a precise assessment of your kidney health!

Consult our expert nuclear medicine team for detailed and accurate diagnostics.

Note: The radioactive tracer used is safe and leaves your body within 24 hours. There is no need for hospitalization after the test.