Milk Scan

Milk scan involves drinking milk/formula or any beverage high in protein.  A radiotracer is added to the liquid.  The patient will drink the milk in about a 10–15minute period.  After the milk has been ingested, the patient will take pictures for one hour.  These pictures will enable the doctor to see whether the patient is refluxing and how often.    In addition, the patient will take three pictures spread out of 2 hours.  One picture is taken immediately after ingestion, the second picture one hour later, and the third picture two hours later.  These pictures watch the progression of the milk out of the stomach as well indicate whether the patient refluxed and how often the reflux occurred. A milk scan gives information about digestion as well as reflux.  The patient cannot eat or drink four hours before the test.

**Sedation is not an option for this test as it slows down digestion and could give false results.

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.