G.I. Bleeding Scan

This scan is completed to determine the site of gastrointestinal bleeding.

Procedure

A small amount of blood will be withdrawn from a vein in your arm. Your blood will then be mixed with a radioactive tracer, which will allow it to "hook" into your bloodstream. This labeling takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour. Your radioactive blood is then injected back into a vein in your arm.

After your blood has been labeled, painless images of your abdomen will be taken for about one hour while you lay on your back. Additional images may need to be taken after several hours and possibly the following day. In most cases, you will not be required to stay in the department.

Preparation

• You may eat and drink as usual.
• Take your medications as ordered by your doctor.
• Remember to bring the written order (prescription), for this test, given to you by your doctor.

Precautions

• Patients of childbearing age should review the pregnancy and breastfeeding guidelines.