A DTPA Scan (Diethylene Triamine Pentaacetic Acid scan) is a nuclear medicine imaging test used to assess the function and drainage of your kidneys.
Unlike ultrasound or CT that show structure, a DTPA scan evaluates how well each kidney is working, and how efficiently urine flows from kidneys to the bladder.
This test is ideal for detecting kidney problems early, guiding treatment, and avoiding long-term damage.
At Dr. Anand’s Imaging & Neurological Research Centre, we use a Dual Head Gamma Camera to perform precise, quick, and safe DTPA scans.
1. 🩺 Kidney Function Evaluation
Measures how well each kidney filters blood
Assesses function in patients with one kidney
Detects early-stage kidney diseases
2. 🚰 Urine Flow Assessment
Evaluates obstruction in urinary tract
Detects blockage in ureters or kidney swelling (hydronephrosis)
3. 🧒 Pediatric Kidney Issues
Identifies urinary reflux (VUR) or congenital kidney abnormalities
Important for repeated UTIs in children
4. 💉 Post-Surgery Monitoring
Checks kidney transplant function
Assesses recovery after stone removal or stent placement
1. 💉 Small Injection
A safe radioactive tracer (DTPA) is injected into a vein. It behaves like a substance filtered by the kidneys.
2. 🛏️ Scanning
You lie down under a gamma camera, which captures real-time images of how the tracer moves through your kidneys.
3. 💊 Lasix Use (if needed)
A diuretic (Lasix) may be given to check how quickly urine drains out of kidneys.
4. 🕒 Timing
The entire scan usually takes 30–45 minutes.
✅ Completely painless
✅ Safe, even for children
| Use Case | Examples |
|---|---|
| Kidney Obstruction | Stones, ureter narrowing |
| Low Kidney Function | One kidney not working properly |
| Pediatric Conditions | Reflux (VUR), recurrent UTI |
| Transplant Follow-Up | Check kidney transplant function |
| Post-Surgical Recovery | After ureteral stent, blockage removal |
💧 Drink water before the test (as advised)
🧴 No fasting required
💊 Inform us about any medications or diuretic allergies
👩⚕️ Inform the technician if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
🕶️ Radiation is minimal and exits your body naturally
✅ Outpatient test – go home the same day
✅ Resume normal activity after the scan
🅰️ Yes. It’s used in very small quantities and exits your body quickly through urine.
🅰️ Absolutely. It’s commonly used in children with UTIs or congenital kidney issues.
🅰️ About 30 to 45 minutes. You may leave right after it’s done.
🅰️ Reports are usually ready within 24 hours. Emergency reports may be provided faster.
🅰️ No. It’s a simple outpatient procedure.
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