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Liver scan How the Test is Performed:
Technetium is injected into a vein. Remove any jewelry, dentures, or other objects that may interfere with the scan. After the liver has had sufficient time to absorb the technetium (about 20 minutes), you lie on a gantry (movable table) and are positioned under the scanner. Technetium emits gamma rays that are detected by the scanner and reproduced on a computer as a 3-dimensional image. As the liver takes up the technetium, any cancer deposits greater than 2 or 3 centimeters in diameter are "visible," because they appear whiter than the normal liver tissue. This is commonly referred to as a "cold spot."
The technician operating the camera and computer can manipulate the equipment to get a clearer picture. You are asked to remain still during the scan.
How to Prepare:
You must sign an informed consent form.
Remove jewelry and other metals because they can interfere with the scanner's functions. You may need to wear a hospital gown.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
How it Feels:
When the technetium is injected, there will be a sharp prick or stinging from the needle. After the injection, there is no pain. The major discomfort is from the need to lie still during the scan; but if you are very tense, you may be given a mild sedative.
Risks:
There is some concern with radiation from any scan. However, the level of radiation in technetium is less than that of most X-rays and is not considered significant enough to cause harm to the average person; however, pregnant or nursing women should consult their health care provider before any exposure to radiation because fetuses and nursing babies are more sensitive to the effects of radiation.
Why this Test is Performed:
This test is probably the best way to study the liver without surgery. It is particularly valuable because it can provide information about liver function. It is also used to help confirm other test results.
Normal Values:
The liver and spleen should appear normal in size, shape, and location. Technetium is absorbed evenly.
Abnormal Results:
Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:
Cost:
Actual costs vary; charges may include hospital charges (equipment and procedure; approximately $100 to $150) and radiologist's fees. The average total cost is estimated as $250 to $350 but may be much more depending on the extent of the scan.
Special Considerations:
Other tests may be needed to confirm the findings of this test; including abdominal ultrasound , abdominal CT scan , liver biopsy or spleen biopsy , or liver flow study.
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