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Programs & Services - Medical Imaging

Nuclear Medicine > Exams & Procedures > Leg Lymphoscintigraphy

This test looks at the flow of lymph fluid through your lymphatic ducts and glands.

The test involves the injection of a small amount of a radioactive tracer into each foot. Pictures will be taken following the distribution of the lymph fluid up the legs.

This test may have been ordered by your doctor to investigate several different possible disease processes:

  • excessive leg swelling
  • blockage
  • abnormal flow

Preparation

  • Bring a list of all medications and supplements you take. This includes vitamins, herbal remedies, and holistic medications.
  • Do not bring children or pregnant women with you to the department. We do not want to expose them to unnecessary radiation.
  • Any of these procedures is subject to change according to the nuclear medicine physician. The duration of the tests is a rough estimate. Please be aware that the time may be lengthened if a scan has to be repeated, if emergency cases are brought to the department or due to unforeseen circumstances.

About the Procedure

  • The procedure takes about two hours.
  • A technologist will briefly explain the test to you and try to answer any questions you may have about the procedure.
  • A technologist will ask you a few questions about your medical history and medications.
  • You will be asked to lie down on a bed.
  • The nuclear medicine doctor will make three injections of a radioactive tracer into each foot using a very small needle.
  • Pictures are taken following the flow of the tracer up the legs into the abdomen.