Bone Scanning (Nuclear Scintigraphy)
Scintigraphy is also known as ‘Bone Scanning' and is a tremendously sensitive imaging technique for investigating problems in bone. This method of imaging involves the intravenous injection of a radioactive pharmaceutical. The uptake of this agent is then recorded by a gamma camera and processed by a computer system. Areas of damage have a greater uptake of the radioactive agent and appear on the image as "hot spots". It highlights areas of bone that are metabolically active, usually indicating a disease process.
Scintigraphy can be very helpful in picking up problems early in the disease process or for identifying suspected fractures. Scintigraphy is typically used in the investigation of subtle lameness, which is not easily diagnosed with nerve blocks.
It is also very useful for investigating problems in the back and pelvis where the large muscle mass can make radiography and ultrasound investigation difficult. The Chiltern Equine Clinic works alongside the Newmarket Equine Hospital to provide bone scanning for it’s patients.
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