Lung Perfusion Scan

A lung perfusion scan is a diagnostic nuclear medicine test that is used to evaluate how well the blood circulates within the lungs.

To perform the test, a radiopharmaceutical will be injected in one of your child's veins. A special camera, called a gamma camera, is used to take pictures of the lungs after the radiopharmaceutical has been injected.

Although the gamma camera may appear large and intimidating, it does not touch your child.

• A radiopharmaceutical will be injected in one of your child's veins.
• Imaging of the lungs will be performed.
• It is important that your child remains as still as possible during imaging to obtain the best quality images.
• The radiopharmaceutical contains a very tiny amount of radioactive molecules. We believe that the benefit to your child's health outweighs potential radiation risk.
• The camera used to obtain the images does not produce any radiation.

Who can I call with questions?

If you have any questions, please call or text 865-541-8116 to speak with a member of the Radiology or Sedation team.

Someone from our Radiology team will call or text to confirm your appointment and answer any questions you may have regarding your appointment. If you have any questions, please contact us at 865-541-8116.

You can also see these instructions and more information here about Imaging and Radiology at East Tennessee Children's Hospital.