Imaging
Bone Scan
A bone scan uses a small radioactive injection and a special camera to highlight areas of unusual bone activity, such as fractures, infection, arthritis or cancer spread.
Quick answer
Bone Scan: what it is and what the results mean
A bone scan (skeletal scintigraphy) is a nuclear medicine test. A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into a vein and taken up by areas of active bone turnover, which then show up as “hot spots” on a gamma camera.
- Why it is done: It is used to look for hidden fractures, bone infection, arthritis, unexplained bone pain, and to check whether cancer has spread to the bones.
- Understanding results: Areas of increased tracer uptake (hot spots) suggest active bone processes but are not specific — they can be caused by many conditions.
What it is
A bone scan (skeletal scintigraphy) is a nuclear medicine test. A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into a vein and taken up by areas of active bone turnover, which then show up as “hot spots” on a gamma camera.
Why it is done
It is used to look for hidden fractures, bone infection, arthritis, unexplained bone pain, and to check whether cancer has spread to the bones. It can show changes earlier than plain X-rays.
What to expect
A tracer is injected, then you wait 2–4 hours (often leaving and returning) for it to spread into the bones. You drink fluids and empty your bladder, then lie still while the camera scans your body, which takes about 30–60 minutes.
Understanding the results
Areas of increased tracer uptake (hot spots) suggest active bone processes but are not specific — they can be caused by many conditions. Results are interpreted alongside symptoms and other imaging, and abnormal areas may need further tests.
Good to know
Risks and limitations
The radiation dose is low and the tracer clears within a day or two. Hot spots are sensitive but not specific, so extra imaging (such as X-ray, CT or MRI) is often needed to explain them. Tell staff if you are or could be pregnant or breastfeeding.
Education and reference only. This explains the test in general terms and is not medical advice. Always follow the specific instructions from the team arranging your test, and discuss your results with your clinician.
Answers
Bone Scan: frequently asked questions
Why do I have to wait so long during a bone scan?
After the injection the tracer needs a few hours to be taken up by your bones. You can usually leave and come back for the scanning part, which is why the appointment is spread over several hours.
Does a hot spot mean I have cancer?
No. Hot spots simply show active bone areas, which can be due to arthritis, an old fracture, infection or cancer. Your doctor uses your history and further tests to work out the cause.
Related tests
Other imaging investigations
Sources
Where this is drawn from
- NHS — Tests and treatments
- NICE — diagnostic guidance
- Royal College of Radiologists / relevant professional body
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