A vesicoureteric reflux scan usually is done on pediatric patients to assess abnormal bladder filling and possible reflux into the ureter. 99mTc pentetate (diethylenetriaminepentaacetate [DTPA] used as a chelating vehicle) is administered through a urinary catheter, followed by sufficient saline until the patient has an urge to urinate. The ureters and kidneys are scanned by the gamma camera during administration to detect the reflux.
Place the patient in the supine position. Use a special urinary catheter kit and insert a urinary catheter.
Start the gamma camera immediately for dynamic acquisition while the radiopharmaceutical and saline are administered until the bladder is full or there is patient discomfort.
Remove the catheter once the imaging is complete.
Abnormal vesicoureteric reflux may be either congenital (immature development of the urinary tract) or caused by infection.
Pretest Patient Care
See standard pretest care for nuclear imaging of pediatric patients.
Place a urinary catheter with sterile saline. Place an absorbent, plastic-backed pad under the patient to absorb any leakage of radioactive material. If a urinary catheter is contraindicated for the patient, use an alternative indirect renogram method.
Posttest Patient Care
Refer to standard nuclear imaging posttest precautions for adults.
Depending on cause and severity, antibiotic therapy or surgery is used to treat the condition.
Remember that special handling of the patient’s urine (gloves and handwashing before donning gloves and after gloves are removed) is necessary for 24 hours after completion of the test.