Testicular Study

What is the purpose of a testicular scan?
A testicular scan helps physicians determine if there are any problems involving the testis.

How is a testicular 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 then lie on a special table that allows us to take pictures of your testical area. A camera that detects radioactivity will be positioned over the testical area for about 15 minutes. Nothing will touch you. It is very important that you do not move for this procedure. After the pictures are completed, the nuclear medicine physician will decide if any more pictures are needed. If more pictures are needed, they will be taken at this time.

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

How will I feel after I have a testicluar 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. Sometimes the ordering physician is notified immediately, while the patient waits.

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.