Renal

This scan is performed to look at the blood supply, function and excretion of urine from the kidneys. It will determine what percentage each kidney contributes to total kidney function and how well urine is excreted into the bladder.

You will receive a small cannula into the vein of your arm which stays in for the duration of the test. Through this a radiopharmaceutical is injected in order to highlight the kidneys for the camera. After 20 minutes of scanning, you may be given a second injection of Lasix (diuretic)which causes the kidneys to make more urine. We then image for a further 20 minutes.

Preparation: Drink one litre of fluid in the hour before the appointment time.

Test Duration: 1 hour

Are there any after effects: No, however, if you receive the Lasix injection, you may feel thirsty and need to drink plenty of fluids for the rest of the day so you do not become dehydrated.

Clinical Indications:

• Renal function and blood flow
• Renal artery stenosis (narrowing of the arteries that take blood to the kidneys)
• Renal outflow obstruction (blockage of the ureters)
• Renal transplant perfusion and function

This test accurately assesses function throughout the kidney. It also measures the function of each kidney relative to the other. The scan is very sensitive for detecting renal scars or active infection. You will receive an injection of a radiopharmaceutical into a vein in your arm which will highlight the kidneys for the camera. You will then be asked to return to the department approximately 3 hours later for the scan.

Preparation: Nil, although adequate hydration is helpful.
Test Duration:

• Initial Appointment – 10 minutes
• Delay Appointment – 40 minutes

Are there any after effects: No

Clinical Indications:

• Renal scarring
• Acute pyelonephritis
• Relative functioning renal mass
• Solitary or ectopic renal tissue (eg. pelvic kidney)
• Horseshoe and pseudohorseshoe kidneys

Click to enlarge

The first image demonstrates a normal kidney appearance. The second images demonstrates acute pyelonephritis.