99m Tc Thyroid Scan near me in New Delhi

The 99m Tc Thyroid Scan helps find out various thyroid disorders. After a small dose of the radioactive material is injected into a vein, the thyroid gland absorbs the compound, and a special gamma camera captures images of the gland at different angles. The scan can differentiate between “hot” (active) and “cold”(inactive) thyroid nodules. It also shows overall thyroid activity, like in Graves’ disease, and helps check for enlargement, inflammation, or congenital issues. The procedure is considered safe for most individuals but involves a minor radiation exposure.

A 8-12 hours fast is usually advised before this thyroid scan procedure. Avoid iodine-containing medications or contrast agents to reduce interference and improve image quality. Inform your doctor about your recent tests or thyroid medication intake. Female patients should inform the doctor if they are pregnant or breastfeeding. Bring any recent lab reports (within 15 days), such as Urea & Creatinine, if requested. One attendant is mandatory for this test unless advised otherwise by the facility. Informed consent is required before the procedure. 

Interpretation of scan results requires expert medical evaluation. Do not self-diagnose or medicate based on scan findings. Always discuss results with your doctor. 

Disclaimer: You must visit your nearest Tata 1mg partnered facility for this test.

How to Prepare for the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan?

• Avoid iodine medicines or contrast agents for several days before the scan (as your doctor advises)
• Fast (no food or drink) for about 8-12 hours (usually overnight) if instructed
• Tell your provider if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or about all medicines you take
• Remove jewelry or metallic objects near your neck before the scan

How is the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan Performed?

• A small amount of Technetium-99m is injected into a vein
• You wait while the radioactive material (tracer) collects in your thyroid
• You lie on a table with your neck extended for clear pictures
• A gamma camera takes images of your thyroid from different angles

How Does the Test Work?

The 99m Tc Thyroid Scan shows where the radioactive material collects in the thyroid. “Hot” spots mean increased activity; “cold” spots mean decreased or no activity. This helps find areas that may be abnormal.

Who Should Avoid or Take Precautions Before the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (radiation exposure risk)
• Those with allergies to radiotracer or contrast materials
• Recent iodine-containing tests may interfere with results

What to Expect During the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan?

• Minor discomfort from the injection; otherwise, painless
• You will be asked to lie down on a table with your neck extended backward.
• A special gamma camera will be positioned over your neck to take images.
• The camera will capture multiple images from different angles around your neck.
• You need to stay very still while images are taken to avoid blurring.
• The technologist or nurse will guide you throughout the procedure.
• No sedation or anesthesia is needed for the test.
• You may be asked to drink water after the injection to clear your salivary glands in some cases.

What to Expect After the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan?

• You can usually resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the radioactive tracer from your body.
• Use the toilet carefully: flush twice and wash your hands thoroughly to reduce radiation exposure to others.
• Avoid close contact with pregnant women, infants, and young children for 24 hours after the test.
• If you are breastfeeding, you may be advised to pump and discard breast milk for 24 hours.
• Follow any specific instructions your doctor provides regarding medications or upcoming medical tests.
• Report any unusual symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

Is the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan Safe?

The 99m Tc Thyroid Scan is considered safe. It uses a small, controlled amount of radioactive material (tracer) that exposes you to minimal radiation, well within diagnostic safety standards. The tracer quickly leaves your body, and adverse reactions are very rare. Overall, when done under medical supervision, this test is low-risk, and effective for evaluating thyroid conditions.

Is it safe to have the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan while pregnant?

Pregnant women should avoid this test due to radiation risks, and breastfeeding mothers may need to take certain precautions. 

What are the Risks of the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan?

• Very low risk from radiation exposure
• Rare risk of allergic reaction to the radiotracer

What are the Limitations of the 99m Tc Thyroid Scan?

• Does not replace biopsy or detailed structural tests
• Medicines or recent thyroid procedures may affect results

How Are Results Used?

99 Tc Thyroid scan results help diagnose thyroid overactivity, lumps, cancer, and guide treatment planning, including surgery or radioiodine therapy.