Renal Scan/Renogram

This exam shows how well the kidneys are functioning.

Preparation

Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment.
Bring a list of current medications.
Please arrive well hydrated, 2-3 glasses (16 to 24 ounces) of water, before exam.

You may be asked to drink some water upon arrival in the nuclear medicine department.
An IV will be started in one of your arms.
You will be placed on a scanning table with a gamma camera in position to image the kidneys.
The nuclear medicine technologist will inject a small amount of radioactive tracer through the IV and begin the imaging process immediately.
Imaging will require you to lie flat on your back, remaining relatively still for at least 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 between 1 and 2 hours.