Patient Instructions - Renogram or Renal Scan

A renogram or renal scan is a test that uses a radioactive substance (or tracer) to examine your kidneys and their function. The scan evaluates the blood flow through the kidneys and measures the amount of time it takes for the tracer to move through the kidneys, collect in the urine and drain into the bladder.

Before your Procedure

• Drink at least two 8-ounce glasses of water within 1 hour of the test.

• No dietary or medication restrictions are required.

During your Procedure

• A radioactive substance (or tracer) is injected into a vein in your arm. You will not feel any effects from the injection.

• The radioactive substance travels through the blood to your kidneys. The radiation you are exposed to with the injected radioactive substance is about the same as a regular X-ray. Your body usually eliminates the tracer within 24 hours.

• You will be positioned on a table and images will be taken for about 30-45 minutes.

• Occasionally, a medication called Lasix is also injected to stimulate the urine flow through the kidneys to the bladder.

• Length of the entire process is approximately 1 hour.

After your Procedure

• You can resume your normal activities.

• Increase your fluid intake unless otherwise directed by your doctor.

• A radiologist will examine your renogram pictures and your physician will receive a report of the findings and discuss the results 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 provider.