What to tell your healthcare provider

 Tell the technologist if you:

• Are pregnant or think you could be pregnant

• Have any metal in the part of your body being imaged, such as a hip replacement

• Have had a recent nuclear medicine scan, CT scan with oral contrast, or an X-ray test with oral contrast such as a barium enema, barium swallow, or upper GI

• Have a severely curved spine

• Have had spinal surgery

• Have a history of spinal or hip fractures

• Can’t lie on your back

Before your test

• Wear clothing without metal closures, such as zippers or metal buttons.

• Bring a list of medicines that you take.

During your test

• You will lie on a table or sit.

• Your lower legs may be raised on a platform.

• A scanner arm moves back and forth over the part of your body being scanned.

• Stay still and don't talk during the scan.

• Follow instructions. This can help prevent the need for a second exam.

The technologist will adjust your body and the scanner during the exam.

After your test

• You may need to wait for a short time while the images are reviewed.

• Your healthcare provider will discuss the test results with you during a follow-up visit or over the phone.

Your next appointment is: