A diuresis renal scan is performed to assess if your kidneys have an obstruction and to study the entire renal excretory system.
For a diuresis renal scan, an IV will be started in a vein in your arm. You will receive fluid through the IV of normal saline, which is sterile water mixed with a very small amount of salt. The amount of fluid you receive will be based on your weight. It usually takes 30 to 40 minutes for all the fluid to absorb into your body. After the fluid is absorbed, a radioactive tracer will be injected into your IV and images will be taken of your kidneys. You will either be sitting or lying on a table. Continuous images will be taken of your kidneys while they fill. This usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. When your kidneys are full, your IV will be injected with Lasix and images will be taken for an additional 30 minutes. Lasix will make your kidneys drain, so you may experience some discomfort from the urge to empty your bladder. The total time for the diuresis renal scan is approximately two-and-a-half to three hours.
Preparation
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Please bring a complete list of your medications to your appointment.
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Continue taking your medications as directed by your physician.
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You may eat as usual the day of your appointment - unless your diuresis renal scan is being performed with anesthesia.
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Be sure to drink plenty of fluids the day before and the day of your appointment - unless your diuresis renal scan is being performed with anesthesia.
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If your diuresis renal scan is being performed with anesthesia, it is important to follow the preparation instructions supplied by your anesthesiologist.
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There is a TV and VCR available for children to watch videos during imaging.
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Remember to bring the written order (prescription), for this test, given to you by your doctor.
Precautions
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Sulfa allergy
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Hypokalemia
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Hypotension
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Please inform the technologist is you are a diabetic.
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Patients of childbearing age should review the pregnancy and breastfeeding guidelines.