Whole-Body Metastatic Bone Scan (Targeted Skeletal Nuclear Medicine Imaging)
This targeted skeletal nuclear medicine exam uses a low dose of a radioactive tracer that is absorbed by active bone tissue to generate full images of your entire skeleton, with no enclosed scanning space or contrast agent required for the 10-minute image capture process. It is a core oncology imaging tool used to identify sites of abnormal bone activity linked to metastatic cancer spread, pinpoint primary or secondary bone tumor locations, and track response to metastatic bone disease treatment across follow-up appointments.
This 10-minute nuclear medicine skeletal scan uses a low-dose radioactive tracer to detect abnormal bone activity from metastatic cancer spread across your entire skeleton, with no contrast agent or claustrophobia risk.
Key facts at a glance
- Modality
- nuclear
- Body part
- whole-body
- Ionizing radiation
- true
- Radiation dose
- 6
- Duration (min)
- 10
- Pregnancy safe
- false
- Pediatric safe
- true
- Breastfeeding safe
- true
- Claustrophobia risk
- none
- Metal implant safe
- safe
- Sedation
- none
- LOINC
- 39851-6
- SNOMED
- 39937001
- Result turnaround
- 24-48h
- Availability
- routine
- Setting
- any
- Cost tier
- moderate
Understanding Nuclear Scan of skeleton
Nuclear Medicine provides detailed visualization of skeleton. The procedure uses controlled radiation to create precise images with excellent anatomical detail.
Clinical Indications
This diagnostic examination detects abnormalities, guides treatment decisions, and monitors known conditions.
What to Expect
The procedure typically takes 10 minutes. The examination is painless and non-invasive.
How to read the report
- Results reviewed by board-certified radiologist.
- Report transmitted to referring physician.
What Is This Procedure?
This nuclear medicine scan evaluates whole-body, specifically skeleton. Uses controlled radiation.
What Does It Show?
Detailed images of skeleton. Part of the oncology system.
Why Is It Done?
Detect abnormalities, Guide treatment, Monitor conditions.
What to Expect
Procedure takes 10 minutes.
Severe pain at procedure site
urgentWorsening severe pain with fever or other symptoms. Go to urgent care or ER.
Mild symptoms after procedure
promptMild discomfort or symptoms that don't improve. Contact your doctor.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy