Parathyroid Scan

A parathyroid scan uses a radioactive tracer that is absorbed by cells in the parathyroid glands to obtain an image of the glands and any abnormally active areas within them.

Parathyroid scans are not recommended for pregnant women because of the potential harm to the developing fetus. People who have had another recent nuclear medicine procedure or an intravenous contrast test may need to wait until the earlier radioactive markers have been eliminated from their system in order to obtain accurate results from the parathyroid scan.

No special preparations are necessary for this test. It is not necessary to fast or maintain a special diet. You may continue your normal medications.

The procedure starts with a radioactive tracer injected into your arm. After waiting 15 minutes, a camera is positioned over you for a scan lasting 5 minutes. Images are obtained again after one hour and two hours following the initial injection.

After the procedure you should not feel any adverse effects of the test and can resume normal activities and diet immediately. Your physician will receive the results of your exam and will discuss them with you.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your doctor or Imaging Services at (320) 255-5619.

Your appointment is on:

Date: ________________ Time: ________________ at the following location:

____ St. Cloud Hospital - please check in at Door A / South Entrance

____ CentraCare Health Plaza - please check in at Woodlands Entrance