Meckel’s Scan in Chennai
A Meckel’s scan, also known as a Meckel’s diverticulum scan or Meckel’s scintigraphy, is a nuclear medicine imaging procedure used to detect the presence and location of Meckel’s diverticulum, a congenital abnormality of the small intestine. Meckel’s diverticulum is a pouch-like protrusion in the wall of the small intestine that may contain gastric or pancreatic tissue and can lead to gastrointestinal symptoms or complications.
What is the need for the study?
The Meckel’s scan is performed to:
- Identify the presence and location of Meckel’s diverticulum in patients with suspected gastrointestinal bleeding, abdominal pain, or other symptoms suggestive of intestinal abnormalities.
- Confirm the diagnosis of Meckel’s diverticulum and differentiate it from other gastrointestinal conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or intestinal tumors.
- Guide treatment decisions, such as surgical intervention, in patients with symptomatic or complicated Meckel’s diverticulum.
This study helps healthcare providers make accurate diagnoses and develop appropriate treatment plans to manage Meckel’s diverticulum and optimize patient outcomes.
How do I prepare?
Preparation for a Meckel’s scan may include:
- 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.
- Medication: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, as certain medications may need to be temporarily stopped before the scan.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids before the scan to ensure adequate hydration, which can help improve the distribution of the radioactive tracer used in the procedure.
Your healthcare provider will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for the Meckel’s scan based on your individual circumstances.
How is this scan performed?
During a Meckel’s scan:
- Radiotracer Administration: A small amount of a radioactive tracer, usually technetium-99m (Tc-99m) pertechnetate, is injected into a vein in your arm. The tracer is taken up by the cells in the lining of the small intestine, including any Meckel’s diverticulum present.
- Imaging: A gamma camera is used to acquire images of the abdomen and pelvis, focusing on the area of the small intestine. The camera detects the gamma rays emitted by the radioactive tracer, allowing visualization of the small intestine and any abnormal uptake indicative of Meckel’s diverticulum.
- Delayed Imaging: Delayed imaging may be performed several hours after tracer administration to allow time for the tracer to accumulate in the small intestine and improve the detection of Meckel’s diverticulum.
What should I do after the scan?
After the Meckel’s scan:
- 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?
Meckel’s scans are 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, like any other medical procedure involving radiation, there is a slight chance of allergic reactions or adverse effects.
Your healthcare provider will discuss the potential risks and benefits of the Meckel’s scan 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 Meckel’s scan. Your healthcare team is here to support you throughout the process and ensure the best possible outcomes for your gastrointestinal health.
