What Is a Renal Cortical Scan?

A renal cortical scan checks how well your kidneys are working. It helps detect:

• Kidney infections
• Birth-related kidney problems
• Blockages or poor blood flow

This scan uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to create clear images of your kidneys.

Who Needs This Scan?

Your doctor may suggest it if you:

• Have repeated urinary infections
• Had a kidney problem since birth
• Have reduced kidney function
• Need detailed kidney imaging

On the Day of the Scan – What to Do

• No special preparation needed unless advised otherwise.
• If sedation is needed (especially for children), fasting may be required.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothes.
• Please avoid wearing any jewellery.

What to Bring

• Doctor’s prescription or scan referral
• Your complete medical history – including treatment details and allergies
• Previous reports and scans (CDs, printouts, etc.)
• Latest Serum Creatinine and Blood Sugar reports (It’s best to get them tested at our centre on the same day)
• One companion is allowed
• Bring some light, home-cooked food for after the scan

Time Required

• Total time: About 3–4 hours
• After injection: You’ll wait for 3 hours so the tracer reaches the kidneys
• Scan time: About 15–20 minutes

How the Scan Happens – Step by Step

• Check-in: You’ll register and share your medical history.
• Cannula placement: A nurse will place a small needle (cannula) in your arm.
• If required, blood samples will be taken from the same cannula.
• Injection: A small dose of tracer is injected.
• Wait time: You'll rest for 3 hours. Drink water during this time to help the tracer move through your body.
• The scan: You’ll lie on a table. The scanner will take images of your kidneys.
• Monitoring: You’ll be under gentle supervision via CCTV or glass window.
• Review: A specialist checks the images. If all looks good, you’ll be free to go.

After the Scan

• You can eat, drink, and take your usual medicines.
• You’ll be observed for 30 minutes before leaving.
• Avoid close contact with pregnant women and young children for the rest of the day.
• Drink plenty of water to help flush the tracer out. It usually leaves your body in 10–12 hours.

In Short

The Renal Cortical Scan is painless and low-risk.
It gives your doctor important information about your kidneys.
We’re here to make the process smooth and stress-free for you.