Parathyroid Scan

There is no specific preparation required. You may take your medications as normal.

The scan is performed in two parts. On arrival a technologist will explain the procedure and then a small injection containing radioactive tracer will be administered into a vein in your arm.

Following the injection you will be positioned on your back on the scanning bed while the gamma camera takes a series of images of your neck area for 15 minutes. The technologist will then advise you of a time to return to the department for the second part of the scan.

The second part of the scan is usually performed at least three hours later. Upon your return to the department you will once again be positioned on your back on the scanning bed. The gamma camera will take another series of images for 45 minutes.

Our Nuclear Medicine Physician will review the images and issue a report. Once completed, the report will be sent electronically to your referring health professional.

Frequently Asked Questions

A Parathyroid Scan is used to assess the function of your parathyroid gland.

4 hours.

  • Your original request form

  • Medicare and any Government concession pension or health care cards

  • Previous relevant imaging

This examination has no associated side effects.

This examination is not suitable for pregnant women. Breastfeeding mothers may undergo the procedure, but will need to cease breastfeeding for 12 hours after the scan. Breast milk should be expressed & discarded during this period. Breastfeeding may resume after the 12 hours.

Within 4-5 working days.