Name of the Procedure:

Kidney Function Study, Non-imaging Radioisotopic Study
(Also known as Renal Function Test, Renal Scintigraphy without Imaging, Radioisotope Renography)

Summary

A Kidney Function Study, Non-imaging Radioisotopic Study, is a simple, non-invasive test that evaluates how well your kidneys are working using a small amount of radioactive material. Unlike traditional imaging tests, this procedure does not produce images but instead measures kidney function by tracking the movement of the radioactive material through your kidneys.

Purpose

This study helps diagnose and manage various kidney conditions by assessing renal function. It can pinpoint issues such as kidney disease, obstructions, and renal failure. The primary goal is to measure how effectively the kidneys are filtering waste from the blood.

Indications

• Symptoms of kidney dysfunction (e.g., swelling, unexplained fatigue, changes in urine volume).
• Monitoring of chronic kidney disease (CKD).
• Evaluation of kidney function before and after renal transplantation.
• Assessment of potential kidney donors.
• Investigation of high blood pressure of renal origin.

Preparation

• No fasting is typically required.
• Inform your doctor about all medications, as some may need adjustment.
• Drink plenty of water before the test to ensure good hydration.
• Pre-test blood and urine tests may be necessary to establish baseline kidney function.

Procedure Description

1. Introduction: The healthcare provider will explain the procedure and answer any questions.
2. Radioisotope Administration: A small amount of radioactive material (radioisotope) is injected into a vein.
3. Monitoring: As the radioisotope travels through your bloodstream and kidneys, the doctor monitors its movement and measures kidney function.
4. Data Collection: Special detectors measure the amount of radioisotope processed by the kidneys over time.

• Tools/Equipment: Radioisotope tracer, gamma detectors.
• Anesthesia/Sedation: Not required.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours, including preparation and post-test observation.

Setting

This study is usually performed in a nuclear medicine department of a hospital or specialized outpatient clinic.

Personnel

• Nuclear Medicine Physician
• Radiologic Technologist
• Nurse (for assistance and post-procedure care)

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to a low level of radiation; generally considered safe.
• Rare allergic reactions to the radioisotope.
• Injection site irritation or infection.

Benefits

• Provides detailed functional information about the kidneys.
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort.
• Quick results, usually available on the same day.

Recovery

• Normal activities can typically be resumed immediately.
• Stay well-hydrated to help flush the radioisotope from your body.
• Follow any specific instructions from your healthcare provider.

Alternatives

• Blood tests (e.g., serum creatinine, GFR) to evaluate kidney function.
• Imaging studies like Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.
• Each alternative has its advantages, such as being non-radioactive, but may not provide as detailed functional information.

Patient Experience

• Minimal discomfort during injection of the radioactive material.
• You may feel a brief cold sensation at the injection site.
• Normal activity can be resumed immediately after the test, with no mandatory downtime.

Pain management and comfort measures are not usually necessary due to the non-invasive nature of the test.