DMSA (Renal cortical scintigraphy)

Another medical term we need to familiarise with, this is the last scan we are doing to check the functions of the kidney and to detect if any scarring..

Gotten this from a website:

What is a DMSA scan?
A DMSA scan evaluates the size, shape and position of the kidneys. It is also used to detect any scarring in the kidneys caused by frequent infections.

This exam requires the use of a radiopharmaceutical through an IV catheter.


What should you do prior to the exam?

This test does not permit any movement. Your child will need to hold still for about an hour. You may want to practice with your child.

If your child requires sedation you will receive additional instructions to follow.

Dress your child comfortably, in clothes that are easily removed. Your child may be given a gown to change into for the procedure.

We have a large variety of video entertainment to choose from, however, your child can also bring along his/her favorite video or DVD to watch during the exam.

You may want to bring a snack or drink for your child to have after the exam.

Note: Parents will be allowed to accompany the child into the exam room. It may be helpful to make other arrangements for siblings.

What should you expect during the exam?

A technologist or nurse will place an IV in your child for the radiopharmaceutical (tracer) injection needed for this exam. This IV tube will be placed in the child’s arm, hand, or foot. Your child will only feel a little discomfort, like a mild pinch. Once the child has proper IV access, the procedure can begin.

The technologist will ask why the DMSA scan is being done, and explain the study to you and your child. The technologist will inject the tracer through the IV line.

Your child is then allowed to take a break. During the break, you and your child may leave the Nuclear Medicine department if you wish. The technologist will tell you what time you need to return to the department for the imaging portion of the test.

The set of delayed images will begin anywhere from 2 to 4 hours after the tracer is given. Upon return your child will be placed on the table on their stomach, with the camera above. Five pictures will be taken, lasting 10 minutes each. Your child must lie absolutely still or images may be unreadable. The nuclear medicine physician may then require additional imaging, after viewing the initial images.

Sedation is an option for the delayed imaging portion of the test for young patients and those unable to hold still.