Bone scan
Learn more about getting a bone scan, including how to prepare for it and what to expect.
Overview
A bone scan is a nuclear medicine test that shows injury, disease or infection of the skeleton.
The test uses a small amount of radioactive material to detects things like:
- Damaged bones
- Infections
- Arthritis
- Certain cancers
It shows these issues days or months earlier than a regular X-ray.
Preparing for the test
Please let us know if you are:
- Allergic to latex
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Traveling outside of Canada in the next two weeks
The radioactive tracer used in this test can pass into your breast milk. For one to two days after the test, do not breastfeed your baby. Use the breast milk you stored before the test or formula instead. Throw away any breast milk you pump in the first one to two days after the test.
You should plan to take the day of your test off work.
On the day of the test
Please arrive 10 minutes early, and check in at the reception desk.
Avoid wearing perfume, cologne or aftershave to your appointment. Some people have allergies to these scents and could have severe reactions. You must take off metal and jewelry that could interfere with the scan. You might also need to remove all or most of your clothes. We will provide you with a change of clothes, if necessary.
Please bring:
- Photo identification
- BC Services Card (personal health number)
- A book or another way to pass the time during your appointment
Please do not bring your children unless you have someone to care for them while you are having the test.
During the test
After the test
Your body will naturally get rid of the tracer over the next two weeks. When you use the toilet, remember to flush right away and wash your hands with soap and water. Since the amount of radiation in the tracer is very small, it is safe for others to be around you.The radioactive tracer can pass into your breast milk. Do not breastfeed your baby for two days after this test. Use the breast milk you stored before the test or switch to formula. Throw away any milk you pump during this period.
We will send your test results to your doctor within two working days. If your doctor does not receive your results within two weeks, ask them to contact us.
If you plan to travel within 14 days, please tell us. We will give you a letter that says you received a small amount of radioactivity.
Support for Indigenous Peoples
The Indigenous Wellness Liaison Team is here to support your health journey. Team members offer cultural support and healthcare advocacy. Learn more below or call them at 604-682-2344,62937 or email IWL@providencehealth.bc.ca.
Education & resources
Patient education
Useful resources
Location
Nuclear Medicine Department
2nd Floor, Providence Wing, St. Paul’s Hospital
St. Paul's Hospital: Transportation, parking & drop-off information