Salivary Scan

What is the purpose of a salivary scan?
The purpose of this test is to evaluate the function of your salivary gland.

How is a salivary scan performed?
You will be given a shot, usually in the vein of your arm. This shot contains a small amount of radioactive material. You will lie on a special table that allows us to take pictures of your face. It is very important that you do not move for this procedure. The camera, which detects radioactivity, will be positioned above your face for about one hour. Nothing will touch you. After the pictures are completed, the nuclear medicine physician will decide if any more pictures are needed. If more are needed, they will be taken at this time.

How do I prepare for this test?
There are no special preparations necessary for a salivary scan.

How will I feel after I have a salivary scan?
The radioactive shot will have no effect on how you feel.

How soon will my doctor get the results?
After the procedure is complete, a nuclear medicine physician will study the pictures along with your medical history to make an assessment of what the images show. He will then dictate a report that will be forwarded to your physician within five to seven business days. If your doctor needs the results sooner, he/she may contact the nuclear medicine physician on the day of the exam.

How do I make an appointment?
Your doctor will write an order or prescription for the test. The doctor will either give you the order or have it faxed to the hospital. You may then schedule your appointment by calling the Nuclear Medicine Department at 847-723-5050.

If I still have questions, who should I call?
For more information about the procedure, please call the Nuclear Medicine Department at 847-723-5050.