Bone scans test for a variety of skeletal conditions, including fractures, infections, unexplained pain, arthritis, tumors, Paget's disease--chronic inflammation of the bones--and death of the bone tissue, according to St. John Providence Health System. To perform the test, a technician injects a small amount of radioactive material, or radiotracer, into the patient's vein. The radiotracer circulates in the body for several hours. The patient lies down, and a scanner detects the radiation, turning it into a picture of the bones. The areas where the radiotracer collects are called hot spots. Complications are rare, despite the introduction of a radioactive substance into the body.
Radioactive Exposure
Bone scans expose the patient to a small amount of radiation when the radiotracer is injected into the veins, according to the National Institutes of Health. Drinking plenty of fluids after the test helps to flush the radiation from the body within two or three days. A pregnant woman, however, may need to wait until after delivery before having the scan due to the risk of exposure to the fetus. If a nursing mother must have a bone scan, she should discard her breast milk for the first two days after the scan to avoid exposing the infant to radiation.
Allergic Reaction
Rarely, a patient may be allergic to the radiotracer that is injected into the veins, according to NIH. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, swelling or, in the case of a severe reaction, wheezing, hives, palpitations, anxiety, confusion, difficulty breathing and difficulty swallowing. Patients who are allergic to or sensitive to latex, contrast dyes, shellfish, or other medications may have a reaction to the radiotracer, according to St. John Providence Health System.
Risks Related to Lying Down
The scan does not cause pain. However, some patients experience discomfort or pain, particularly if they are already in pain, because they must lie still during the procedure. Sitting up quickly after lying flat may cause dizziness and lightheadedness. An elderly person may find it difficult to tolerate the procedure due to the discomfort and may need assistance in sitting up and moving about afterward.
IV Site Complications
As may happen with any intravenous line, the site may become infected if organisms are introduced into the skin, according to St. John Providence Health System. Careful attention to aseptic technique, however, should prevent this unlikely complication from occurring. The patient should examine the IV site for pain, redness or swelling after the procedure. If these symptoms are present, they may indicate an infection or thrombophlebitis and should be reported promptly to the health-care provider.
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