Lung scan

What is a lung scan?

A lung scan is a test used to find problems in the lungs. Special pictures are taken after a medicine is injected into a vein. The medicine is called a radiopharmaceutical (a tiny amount of a radioactive liquid). The pictures show the medicine in the lungs.

Before the scan

Before coming to the hospital, read this explanation and explain to your child what will happen during the test. For young children, use simple words and explain only shortly before the test.

• If your child is an infant, it is helpful to bring along a bottle of formula or juice with you for after the test. It is also recommended that you bring a pacifier, blanket or special toy to help calm your baby.
• For older children, it is helpful to bring a book, toy, or DVD to play with while waiting. It is helpful to have another caregiver for your child's siblings. For young children or babies, it is a good idea to bring a stroller.

During the lung scan

A technologist will place a small needle called an IV into a vein in your child's hand or her foot. The needle hurts for just a moment. When the needle is in, the medicine is injected into a vein. Then, the child will lie still on a soft table and pictures will be taken from above and below her. Your child may need a safety belt to help her lie still. During this time, she may watch a DVD.

It will take at least 1 hour — and sometimes 2 hours — to take all of the pictures. During this time, the camera will not hurt or touch your child. You will be able to stay with her during the entire test.

It is possible that during the procedure your child may experience some discomfort. Please tell the doctor, nurse or technologist if pain occurs.

After the lung scan

The child eliminates the medicine from her body by urinating. She should drink plenty of fluids and urinate often to help clear it from her body. It should be completely out of your her body within 24 hours.

As always, you and your child should wash your hands after she urinates or when handling urine-soaked diapers or sheets.

Results of the test will be available to your child's doctor within 24 hours.

Technology/Scanners used

The pictures will be taken by a Siemens ECam. The open gantry design and feet-in imaging helps your child to feel more comfortable and allows her to watch a movie. The camera has two detectors, one which will be above your child and one which will be under her during the pictures.