Having a Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan

What is a Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan?

A nuclear medicine lung scan — also called a Ventilation/Perfusion Scan or VQ Scan—uses a radioactive material called a tracer to make pictures of your body. The tracer is injected into your vein. The pictures are made as the scan picks up the energy that is given off by the tracer. The scan can help your doctor find the cause of your lung problem or symptom. It checks to see how well air and blood flow to and from your lungs. The test is also used to check for a blood clot in the lung (pulmonary embolism).

How long does the Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan test take?

The test takes about 60 minutes.

Where can I have the Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan done?

The test can be done at Miami Valley Hospital (MVH) and at Miami Valley Hospital South.

When should I arrive for the Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan?

Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled exam to give our staff time to review your medical information.

What are the risks of having a Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan?

Allergic reactions are very rare and are usually mild. Be sure to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Your physician may tell you to not have the scan at this time. Learn more about the benefits versus the risks of having a Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan .

How do I prepare for the Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan?

You do not have to do anything special to get ready for this test. You may eat and drink as usual. Follow any instructions given by your doctor. Typically you will have a chest x-ray before and after this test.

What happens during a Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan?

An intravenous (IV) needle is placed into a vein in your arm or hand. You will lie on an exam table. For the first part of the exam, you will inhale a tracer through a mask that is placed over your nose and mouth. The technologists will take pictures to see how the air flows in and out of your lungs.

Next, a tracer is injected into the IV and more pictures are taken. These images show how well the blood flows to and from your lungs. This test should not cause you any pain but you may not be comfortable lying still for so long. Our staff will do everything they can to help you relax.

What can I expect after the Nuclear Medicine Lung Scan?

Your doctor should receive the results of your scan in two to three business days.

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