How Can A Bone Scan Which Uses Gamma Rays Be Safe?

Posted on Sat, 11 Jun 2011

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 Answered on

Last reviewed on

Question : If a bone scan is done by injecting gamma rays directly into the circulatory system, and gamma rays can cause healthy tissue damage and cancer, how is it that a bone scan is safe? And how does it not cause healthy bone metabolism to change in the rest of the skeleton?

Answered by Dr. Rajinder Bajoria (10 hours later)

Hello,

Thanks for the query.

Contrast that is given during bone scan is safe and in low doses, not in doses which can produce change in bone metabolism & permanent damage. Upper limit of Doses are fixed or decided after plenty of trials not in an irrational manner. No doubt some side effects may be there ,but the benefits of scan over side effects permits their use. All precautions are taken so no serious complication do occur. General malaise & fatigue will disappear with in few days only, so there is nothing to worry. Risk of cancer is almost zero after scan.

‘Hope I have answered your query, I will be available to answer your follow up queries, “Wish you Good Health and trouble free speedy recovery”

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar