Bone Scan

Bone Scan is an investigation that uses ISTOPE SCANNING to create an image of the bones. This often reveals abnormalities much earlier than is possible with conventional X-ray. A radionuclide that is taken up by bone is injected into an arm vein before the test. The rate of blood flow through bone is measured first. Then, after absorption of radionuclide into the bone, the bone density is measured. Local or generalised alterations in density suggest bone disease. Specific diagnosis of the cause of altered density is usually made by BONE BIOPSY.

The amount of radiation used in a bone scan is minute, and the radionuclide is eliminated from the body within a few days. However, the test is not advised for pregnant or nursing women.

A bone marrow biopsy may be done in a health care provider's office or in a hospital. Informed consent for the procedure is typically required. The bone marrow samples are usually taken from the hip bone, or posterior iliac crest. Test is done to diagnose tumors, prognosis of the disease, such as lymphoma, and evaluation of the effectiveness of chemotherapy. A bone marrow biopsy is commonly done using the pelvis (iliac crest), but another bone (such as the breastbone) may be used. In a child, a leg bone or vertebra (bone in the spine) may be used. The biopsy site may be tender or sore for several days after the bone marrow biopsy. Take a pain reliever for soreness as recommended by your physician. Aspirin or certain other pain medications may increase the chance of bleeding. After the biopsy, one should watch the site for bleeding, redness, or swelling. Bone marrow biopsy is done using a large needle inserted through the outside surface of a bone and into the middle of the bone, where the marrow is.

Site of procedure

• Bone marrow biopsy is usually performed on the back of the hipbone, or posterior iliac crest.
• However, an aspirate can also be obtained from the sternum.

Reasons for the procedure

• A decrease in the number of red blood cells.
• Iron deficiency.
• Response to chemotherapy.
• Bleeding or clotting disorders.
• A cancer of the blood-forming tissue.

Before the Procedure

• Your physician will explain the procedure to you and offer you the opportunity to ask any questions that you might have about the procedure.
• Contact your physician if you are sensitive to or are allergic to any medications, latex, tape, and anesthetic agents..
• Tell your doctor about medications (prescribed and over-the-counter) and herbal supplements that you are taking.
• If you have a history of bleeding disorders contact your physician.
• If you are pregnant or suspect that you are pregnant, you should notify your physician.

How do you feel after a Bone marrow Biopsy? 

• You may feel a sharp sting and a burning sensation when the anesthesia is injected to numb the skin over the biopsy site and into the covering of the bone. 
• You may have some soreness and bruising at the biopsy site for a few days.
• You may hear a soft crunching sound and feel pressure and pain when the biopsy needle enters the bone.
• During an aspiration, you may feel a brief, shooting pain down your leg as the marrow fluid is taken.
• You may need to stay in bed for 30 to 60 minutes after the procedure.

What the risks are?

• A reaction to the local anesthetic or sedative.
• There may be some bleeding at the puncture site.
• Infection are rare and can be controlled.
• Pain after the procedure.