Patient Information Resources


Orthopedic Services
Glendale Adventist Medical Center
1509 Wilson Terrace
Glendale, CA 91206
Ph: (818) 409-8000






Ankle
Elbow
Foot
Fractures
General
Hand
Hip
Knee
Pain Management
Shoulder
Wrist

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What is a bone scan?

A bone scan involves injecting a radioactive chemical, called a tracer, into your blood. A technician takes pictures using special imaging equipment that detects the tracer as it circulates through your blood stream. Accumulations of the tracer show up as dark areas in the bone scan. The tracer builds up in bone "hot spots." Hot spots are areas of bone cells that are rapidly turning over. This occurs in such situations as compression fractures, osteoporosis, overuse, and bone tumors. Locating hot spots helps your doctor make a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan.


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*Disclaimer:*The information contained herein is compiled from a variety of sources. It may not be complete or timely. It does not cover all diseases, physical conditions, ailments or treatments. The information should NOT be used in place of visit with your healthcare provider, nor should you disregard the advice of your health care provider because of any information you read in this topic.


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