Brain Scan
Nuclear Medicine Brain Scan
A DaTscan is a specialized nuclear medicine brain imaging scan used to evaluate the dopamine system. It helps physicians diagnose conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and related movement disorders by detecting changes in dopamine transporter activity in the brain.
The scan involves an injection of a small amount of radioactive tracer, followed by brain imaging approximately 3 to 4 hours later.
Patient Testimonials
Danelle
“She was great! Very good at positioning and explaining what she was doing or going to do and when to breathe. Good guidance through procedure.”
Brett, Kristin, Ashley
“Ashley, Brett, and Kristin were totally professional! Thank you for the weekend appts.”
Vanessa
“I wish to especially thank Vanessa in Scheduling. She went above and beyond to make sure this test was completed.”
Ashely, Paul, Chris
“The receptionist Ashley was wonderful… Both Chris and Paul were very patient and kind and really put me at ease.”
Dr Petersen, Hartlee
“They made me so comfortable and took my sarcasm (humor) really good. I thought his assistant was 13… but was the sweetest girl.”
Dan, Paula
“This could have been an extremely uncomfortable appt. Dan and Paula explained everything very well and were very efficient. It was as painless as possible.”
Frequently Asked Questions
An IV line will be placed in your hand or arm to administer the radioactive scanning drug. Depending on the reason for the scan, you may rest quietly in a low-lit room for 45 minutes before your scan. Sometimes there will be a three-hour delay from the injection time to the scan time. You may leave during these three hours and return for your scan at the time givento you by your technologist.
The imaging portion of the scan takes approximately 30 minutes. However, depending on the reason for your scan, you may need to rest in a low-lit room for 45 minutes after receiving the injection, or there may be a three-hour delay between injection and scanning.
Yes. The radioactive scanning drug used in nuclear medicine brain scans is safe and involves only a small amount of radiation. The material is administered through an IV line and is specially designed to be detected by the gamma camera.
During the scan, you’ll lie still while a technologist positions a gamma camera near your head to capture images of your brain. The camera does not touch you and the procedure is painless.