Meckel Diverticulum Nuclear Scan
A Meckel diverticulum nuclear scan (technetium-99m pertechnetate scan) is a procedure used to check for an abnormality on the lower part of the small intestine. This defect is called a Meckel diverticulum. It is a small area of swelling on the intestine wall that looks like a sac or pouch. The defect is present at birth (congenital) and usually does not cause any symptoms or problems. However, the diverticulum contains a lining similar to the lining of the stomach. This lining can produce an acid that sometimes causes problems such as ulcers or bleeding. In that case, treatment is needed to correct this defect.
Your health care provider may recommend this scan if you have symptoms such as lower abdominal
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This is especially important if you are taking diabetes medicines or blood thinners.
• You may be given a medicine to take for a couple days before the procedure. This medicine blocks the production of certain chemicals in your stomach that can interfere with the scan. Take this medicine as directed by your health care provider.
PROCEDURE
• An IV tube will be inserted into one of your veins.
• A small amount of radioactive tracer will be injected through the IV tube.
• As the radioactive tracer travels through your bloodstream, images will be taken of your abdominal area. These images will be taken at 5-minute intervals throughout the procedure.
• At the end of the procedure, you may be asked to urinate. When you return, another image will be taken of your abdominal area.
The procedure may vary among different health care providers and hospitals.
AFTER THE PROCEDURE
• Return to your normal activities and diet as directed by your health care provider.
• The radioactive tracer will leave your body over the next few days. Drink enough fluid to keep your urine clear or pale yellow. This will help flush the tracer out of your