What is a Renal Biopsy?
Renal exams are used to evaluate the collection and flow of urine from the kidneys. It is a nuclear medicine exam which combines a small amount of radioisotope with a pharmaceutical that is targeted to go to a specific organ. This radiopharmaceutical can be injected, inhaled or swallowed and is absorbed by specific cells within your body. Nuclear medicine exams differ from other radiological exams in that they provide both functional and structural information. The exams are very sensitive and can detect disease at its earliest stage. The exams are safe, relatively painless and the radiation exposure is similar to that of other diagnostic X-Ray exams.
Need to Know
- Please inform the technologist if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant
Nice to Know
- Please allow about 90 minutes for the exam
Frequently Asked Questions
What Will Happen During The Renal Biopsy Exam?
On the day of the exam the technologist will explain the procedure and ask you questions regarding your overall kidney health. The technologist will then place an intravenous line in your arm and inject the radiopharmaceutical used to visualize kidneys and urinary tract. The technologist will then immediately begin taking serial images of your kidneys using a nuclear medicine camera. The camera does not emit any radiation, but rather detects the radiation emitted from the radiopharmaceutical that was injected. The camera is open so you are not completely surrounded and the technologist may stay in the scan room with you. You will be asked to hold still but you do not need to hold your breath. Your physician may ask us to introduce a diuretic called lasix halfway through the exam. This pharmaceutical will help your kidney process urine and excrete it into your ureters and bladder. In some cases this will provide us with further information regarding kidney function. Generally the entire procedure takes about 30 minutes.
How Should I Prepare For A Renal Biopsy?
Clothing
- Please wear comfortable clothing, you will be asked to remove any metal objects especially those near your abdominal area.
Medications
- You may take any medications prior to the exam
Food and Drink
- You may eat or drink prior to the exam
What Are The Benefits And Risks Of A Renal Biopsy?
The benefits of Renal Scan:
- Renal scan provide the clinician both a structural and functional evaluation of the kidneys. They are able to help determine blood flow into the kidneys as well as the kidneys ability to make and excrete urine.
Risks you should be aware of:
- Occasionally, the infusion of the diuretic can cause a strong urge to void.
Locations
Glastonbury
704 Hebron Avenue, Suite 100 (Access to building off Oakwood Drive)Glastonbury, CT 06033
Monday - Friday | 7:00am - 5:00pm
Saturday | 7:00am - 3:30pm
Weeknight appointments available for Mammography and MRI
Hours vary by examMore Information
