Technetium tc-99m pentetate, diagnostic, per study dose, up to 25 millicuries
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Technetium Tc-99m Pentetate Scan Common name(s): Tc-99m DTPA scan Technical/Medical terms: Technetium Tc-99m diethylenetriaminepentaacetate (DTPA) diagnostic imaging
Summary
A Technetium Tc-99m DTPA scan is a diagnostic imaging test where a small amount of radioactive substance called Technetium Tc-99m DTPA is injected into the body to help visualize organs and tissues through a special camera that detects radiation.
Purpose
The procedure helps in diagnosing various medical conditions by allowing doctors to see live images of organs and tissues. It is commonly used to assess kidney function, evaluate cerebrospinal fluid dynamics, and check for any leaks or abnormalities in organ systems.
Indications
- Symptoms of kidney dysfunction (e.g., changes in urine output, unexplained swelling)
- Suspected cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage
- Need to assess the efficiency of urinary drainage systems
- Evaluation of organ perfusion and function
Preparation
- Patients may be advised to stay hydrated and drink plenty of water before the procedure.
- Certain medications may need to be paused; consult your healthcare provider.
- No fasting is usually required unless instructed otherwise.
- Any recent imaging studies or lab results should be provided to the medical team.
Procedure Description
- The patient lies on an examination table.
- A small amount of Technetium Tc-99m DTPA is injected into a vein, usually in the arm.
- The patient may need to wait briefly to allow the substance to circulate through the body.
- A gamma camera is used to take images as the Technetium Tc-99m DTPA travels through the bloodstream and accumulates in specific organs.
- The patient may be asked to change positions to get various angles for better imaging.
Duration
The procedure typically lasts between 30 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the specifics of the study.
Setting
This procedure is commonly performed in a hospital's nuclear medicine department or an outpatient imaging clinic.
Personnel
- Nuclear Medicine Technologists
- Radiologists
- Nurses
- Occasionally, additional support staff
Risks and Complications
- Allergic reactions to the radioactive material (rare)
- Minor discomfort at the injection site
- Slight risk of infection
- Mild radiation exposure, generally considered safe for most patients
Benefits
- Accurate and detailed images of internal organs and tissues
- Non-invasive method to diagnose and monitor various medical conditions
- Rapid results, often available the same day
Recovery
- No significant downtime; patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the radioactive material from the body.
- Follow-up appointments may be required to discuss results and further steps.
Alternatives
- Ultrasound: non-invasive, no radiation but may be less detailed for certain conditions.
- MRI: highly detailed images without radiation but may be contraindicated for patients with metal implants.
- CT scan: detailed images using X-ray radiation, higher exposure compared to Tc-99m DTPA scans.
Patient Experience
- Patients might feel a slight pinch or sting during the injection.
- Generally painless, with some needing to remain still for clear imaging.
- Any discomfort is minimal and short-lived; comfort measures are available as needed.
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