Renal Scan

During a renal scan, pictures are taken of the kidneys to show how they’re working.

Before the Scan

• Explain the scan to your child in a way they’ll understand.
• They should have lots of liquids on the day before the test.
• They can eat/drink while they’re waiting unless their doctor says no. Babies can have a bottle.
• You can stay with them during the scan.
• They can bring a favorite video to watch.

How the Scan Is Done

1. Your child will be placed on a long table with a camera over it. If they’re small or have a hard time staying still, they may be placed on a papoose board.
2. Where they pee (urethra) will be cleaned so numbing gel (lidocaine) can be applied to that area. This will not hurt. The gel will keep them comfortable while the catheter is placed. It will also reduce any pain they may have when peeing after the scan.
3. A tube (catheter) will be passed through their urethra into their bladder. This keeps the bladder empty so we can see how the kidneys are working.
4. An intravenous (IV) line will be placed in their vein. This may hurt. A small amount of radioactive material is given through the IV.
5. They will be placed in the middle of a donut-shaped camera. The camera will not touch or hurt your child.
6. Pictures will be taken while your child stays still on the table. They cannot get off the table during the scan.
7. The catheter and IV will be removed.

After the Scan

• Your child may eat their usual foods and return to normal activity.
• Your child’s doctor or health care provider will contact you when the scan results are ready.

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