Lasix Renal Scan Pediatric Nuclear Medicine
What is a Lasix Renal Scan?
This radiology exam assesses the function and drainage of the kidneys. The scan can find out if there is an obstruction or blockage.
What should I expect?
You will be asked to bring your child to our Pediatric Day Treatment/Sedation Clinic where an IV will be started. The IV may be used to provide fluids and medicine. In some cases, your child may need to have a catheter placed into the bladder. Your doctor can tell you whether your child will need this. We will have a Child Life Specialist on hand to help you and your child through these steps and the study.
How will this be done?
Sedation may be needed. Ask your doctor if your child needs sedation. If needed, our sedation department will call you the day before. They will let you know what time your child should stop eating and drinking. If your child does not need sedation, babies may have their normal feeding and older children may eat and drink before the scan.
Our staff will take you to Radiology for your scan. The technologist will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. One or two parents or caregivers may stay with the child during the scan. Bring activities to help your child sit still for the study. You may bring books, movies, or if young enough, a bottle to drink.
Your child will need to lie flat on a table for about 45 minutes. It is very important to be still during this test. The technologist may need to swaddle the child to ensure a good study. A special scanning camera is used to capture the image.
Two series of pictures will be taken. Each lasts about 20 minutes. A special medicine will be given through the IV before each series to help get kidney pictures. Then, a different medicine, lasix, will be given to help drain the kidneys. While this medicine is taking effect, more pictures will be taken. This will help assess the drainage and function of the kidneys.
The urinary catheter and IV will be removed in the Day Treatment/Sedation Center. When your child is stable, you will be able to go to the follow-up appointment. You will discuss the results of the study with your child's doctor.
The information provided should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Last Updated: 04/18/2011
Copyright © 04/18/2011 University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics Authority. All rights reserved. Produced by the Department of Nursing. HF#7184
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