The bone scan makes problem areas such as infections, bone tumors and fractures in, for example, the spine visible.
The spine consists of 33 vertebrae that protect the spinal cord and provide stability to the body. The lower part of the vertebral column is called the lumbar spine. This part of the spine is often the victim of back pain.
If you are experiencing low back pain, the doctor may decide to do a bone scan to identify the source of the problem. In such an examination, a radioactive substance (a tracer) is injected into the bloodstream. This chemical binds in bone areas where a lot of new bone is made; this is usually a sign of bone damage. Then the chemical in the bones is detected with a gamma camera and a digital image is made of it.
The bone scan makes problem areas such as infections, bone tumors and spinal fractures visible. A bone scan can also be used to measure bone density and its reduction in osteoporosis (bone decalcification). After the problem areas have been located, more specific tests can point the way to the most appropriate treatment.
