GI scan

Nuclear medicine gastrointestinal (GI) scans show how well different parts of your digestive system are working. 

These tests use a special camera and a radioactive substance called a tracer in a liquid form. The tracer gives off particles that can be detected and used to create 3D pictures.

We use different scans to test different parts of your digestive system, including:

Please let us know if you are:

• Allergic to latex
• Pregnant
• Breastfeeding
• Travelling outside of Canada in the next two weeks

If you are breastfeeding, you need to know the radioactive tracer can pass into your breast milk. This may be harmful to your baby. You might want to pump enough breast milk beforehand for two days of feedings.

You should plan to take the day of your test off work.

You will need to fast for most nuclear medicine GI scans. Your doctor can give you specific instructions. 

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.

• GI scans usually take one to two hours, depending on the specific test you are having.
• For many of the tests, we will inject a small amount of radioactive tracer into your arm. Or, you will ingest the tracer with food or liquid.
• A camera will take pictures as the tracer moves throughout your body. The camera does not give off any radiation. 
• It is important to stay very still so the pictures are clear. 
• We may ask you to change positions between pictures so we can get images from different angles. 

If you are having a gastric emptying scan, you will eat a radioactive meal of scrambled eggs and toast. If you have allergies, you can have oatmeal instead. This test consists of a photo every hour for up to five hours.

Your doctor can let you know about anything else to expect during your specific GI scan. 

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.

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.

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.

Nuclear Medicine Department
2nd Floor, Providence Wing, St. Paul’s Hospital

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