Name of the Procedure:

Liver and Spleen Imaging (Static Only)

Summary

Liver and spleen imaging is a non-invasive diagnostic test that uses nuclear medicine techniques to capture static images of the liver and spleen. It helps in assessing the functionality and structure of these organs.

Purpose

This procedure is used to diagnose and evaluate conditions affecting the liver and spleen, such as organ enlargement, tumors, abscesses, or abnormal blood flow. The goal is to provide detailed images that help in making an accurate diagnosis and devising an appropriate treatment plan.

Indications

• Unexplained abdominal pain
• Enlarged liver or spleen detected on physical exam or other imaging tests
• Evaluation of liver function in patients with liver disease
• Assessment of spleen function in conditions such as splenomegaly
• Screening for tumors or cysts in the liver or spleen

Preparation

• Fasting for a few hours prior to the procedure may be required.
• Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications and any allergies.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests, such as blood tests, might be required to assess liver function.

Procedure Description

1. The patient receives an intravenous injection of a small amount of radioactive material (radiotracer).
2. The patient lies on a scanning table, and a specialized camera (gamma camera) is positioned over the liver and spleen area.
3. The gamma camera detects the radiotracer and takes static images of the liver and spleen.
4. The patient needs to remain still during the imaging process, which typically takes around 30-60 minutes.
5. No sedation is typically needed, and the procedure is pain-free.

Duration

The entire procedure usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, including preparation and imaging.

Setting

Liver and spleen imaging is typically performed in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Nuclear medicine technologist
• Radiologist who interprets the images
• Nurses or other healthcare staff for patient preparation

Risks and Complications

• Minimal exposure to radiation, considered safe for most patients
• Rare allergic reaction to the radiotracer
• Possible discomfort at the injection site

Benefits

• Non-invasive and accurate way to evaluate liver and spleen health
• Helps in early diagnosis and treatment of various conditions
• No significant recovery time needed

Recovery

• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the radiotracer from the body.
• Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to discuss the imaging results.

Alternatives

• Ultrasound: Less detailed but no radiation exposure.
• CT Scan: More detailed images, but higher radiation dose.
• MRI: Excellent detail, but more expensive and not suitable for all patients.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, you will be required to lie still but should not experience any pain. Some may feel a slight discomfort from the injection of the radiotracer. After the procedure, normal activities can be resumed almost immediately, with no significant recovery time needed.