The bones in our body are in a constant state of flux. They are continually being broken down (by cells called osteoclasts) and rebuilt (by osteoblasts). Some disorders, such as inflammation of the bones, blood clots and cancer can cause changes in bone metabolism. Bone metabolism can be examined via bone scans, which use a mildly radioactive dye that accumulates in areas where bone is being metabolized. The dye can then be seen using a special camera.
Step 1
Identify the location of the scan. You may be able to identify the bones that are in the scan based on their appearance (such as the femur or the humerus) or be able to see an outline of the soft tissue around them. The bladder and the kidneys can also be seen because the radioactive dye is excreted through the urine.
Step 2
Identify the angle and time of the image. Bone scans can be done either from the front or the back and this will be indicated on the scans. Also make sure that you have the scans in the right order. A three-phase bone scan will consist of three separate images, two that have been taken 20 to 30 minutes apart and a third that has been taken three to four hours later, once the dye has accumulated in the bones. The time of each scan should be on each image.
Step 3
Look for abnormally light and dark areas. In a three-phase bone scan, the third scan will have the radioactive dye. Areas where the dye has accumulated will be "bright" and indicate increased bone breakdown and reformation, whereas dark areas on the bone indicate reduced bone metabolism, which could be a result of circulatory problems. Compare all three images to look for changes between them.
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