GI Bleed Scintigraphy in Chennai
What is this study?
GI Bleed Scintigraphy, also known as Gastrointestinal Bleeding Scan or GI Bleed Scan, is a nuclear medicine imaging procedure used to detect and localize sources of gastrointestinal bleeding. It involves the administration of a radioactive tracer that labels red blood cells, allowing visualization of bleeding sites within the gastrointestinal tract.
What is the need for the study?
The GI Bleed Scintigraphy is performed to:
- Identify the location and extent of gastrointestinal bleeding in patients with suspected or confirmed GI bleeding.
- Determine the cause of GI bleeding, such as ulcers, tumors, vascular malformations, or inflammatory bowel disease.
- Guide medical or surgical interventions aimed at stopping or controlling bleeding and managing underlying conditions contributing to GI bleeding.
This study helps healthcare providers make timely and accurate diagnoses, which is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment and improving patient outcomes in cases of gastrointestinal bleeding.
How do I prepare?
Preparation for a GI Bleed Scintigraphy may include:
- Medication: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as certain medications may need to be temporarily stopped before the scan.
- Fasting: You may be instructed to fast for a period before the scan, typically for several hours, to ensure an empty stomach for accurate imaging.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids before the scan to ensure adequate hydration, which can help improve the distribution of the radioactive tracer.
Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the GI Bleed Scintigraphy based on your individual circumstances.
How is this scan performed?
During a GI Bleed Scintigraphy:
- Radiotracer Administration: A small amount of a radioactive tracer, typically technetium-99m (Tc-99m) labeled red blood cells or sulfur colloid, is injected into a vein in your arm.
- Imaging: A gamma camera is used to acquire images of the abdomen over a period of time. The camera detects the gamma rays emitted by the radioactive tracer, allowing visualization of the tracer as it moves through the gastrointestinal tract and accumulates at sites of bleeding.
- Dynamic Imaging: Sequential images may be obtained to track the movement of the tracer and identify areas of active bleeding or abnormal tracer accumulation.
- Delayed Imaging: Delayed imaging may be performed several hours after tracer injection to detect slower bleeding sources or persistent tracer accumulation.
What should I do after the scan?
After the GI Bleed Scintigraphy:
- Resume Normal Activities: You can usually resume your normal activities immediately after the scan.
- Follow-Up: Attend any scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to review the results of the scan and discuss further management, if necessary.
Are there any risks in the study?
GI Bleed Scintigraphy is generally considered safe and non-invasive. The amount of radiation exposure from the radioactive tracer used in the scan is minimal and poses little risk to most patients. However, as with any medical procedure involving radiation, there is a small risk of allergic reactions or adverse effects.
Your healthcare provider will discuss the potential risks and benefits of the GI Bleed Scintigraphy with you and address any concerns you may have before proceeding with the procedure.
It’s essential to follow all instructions provided by your healthcare provider and communicate any symptoms or concerns you experience during or after the GI Bleed Scintigraphy. Your healthcare team is here to support you throughout the process and ensure the best possible outcomes for managing gastrointestinal bleeding.
