Thyroid Uptake and Scan

This procedure shows the size and shape of the thyroid and how well the thyroid gland is functioning.

Preparation

• Nothing to eat or drink for 1 hour prior to the study.
• Avoid seafood for 1 week prior to the study.
• Stop taking thyroid medication (e.g. Synthroid or Levothyroxine) for 4 weeks prior to the exam, PTU and Tabazole for 5 days.
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment.

Procedure

• The procedure is done over a two day period.
• This test will help determine both the anatomy and physiology of the thyroid gland.
• The technologist will first obtain some of your medical history and review your medications.
• During this two day period, you will be asked to swallow a pill which contains a small amount of radioactive material. The technologist will ask you to return to the department approximately 6 hours later to take measurements and images of the thyroid gland using a gamma probe and gamma camera.
• The following day the technologist will take measurements of your thyroid again.
• A report is then sent to your referring doctor by the next business day.

After the procedure

• Follow up with your ordering doctor.

Considerations

• Tell the technologist if you are planning to travel out of the country.
• If you are pregnant or suspect you may be, contact your referring doctor.
• This is a two-day exam.