Examination of the bones and joints (skeletal scintigram)
A skeletal scintigram provides exact information on your bones and joints. It helps in the investigation, for example, of whether your joint pain is the result of degradation or an acute inflammation.
For malignant cancers e.g. breast, prostate or lung cancer, this examination technique can also be used to provide evidence of metastases as part of the primary disease, in a single image that extends from your head to your little toe.
Frequently asked question
How is skeletal scintigraphy carried out?
When investigating joint pain, a multiphase image will be produced. The imaging, which takes 10 to 15 minutes, will begin immediately after the intravenous administration of a radioactive substance. After a break of two hours, there is delayed imaging, which can take 30 minutes, depending on the extent of the disease.
Do I need to have an empty stomach for skeletal scintigraphy?
No, you do not need to have an empty stomach for this examination.
How long does a skeletal scintigraphy examination take?
The total duration of the examination is approx. three hours. A written test report will be sent within one working day to the department that referred you or to you in person.
How high is the level of radiation exposure?
The exposure to radiation is 4.3 mSv. In comparison, natural exposure to radiation in Austria is around 2.4 to 16 mSv per year.