Meckels Hyderabad | Focus Diagnostics

About Meckel's Scan

A Meckel's scan is a nuclear medicine imaging examination used to help detect ectopic gastric mucosa, which is stomach-like tissue located outside the stomach and may be present in a Meckel's diverticulum. The examination commonly uses a technetium-99m pertechnetate radiotracer and a gamma camera to identify areas of tracer uptake consistent with gastric mucosal tissue.

Meckel's diverticulum is a congenital pouch in the small intestine. In some individuals, it contains ectopic gastric mucosa that may be associated with gastrointestinal bleeding or other symptoms.

What Does a Meckel's Scan Evaluate?

The scan evaluates the distribution of the radiotracer to identify ectopic gastric mucosa that may be associated with Meckel's diverticulum. The findings can help the treating doctor investigate selected cases of unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding, particularly in children.

The results are interpreted alongside the patient's symptoms, medical history, laboratory results and other investigations. Not every Meckel's diverticulum contains gastric mucosa detectable by this examination.

Why Is a Meckel's Scan Recommended?

A doctor may recommend a Meckel's scan when Meckel's diverticulum containing ectopic gastric mucosa is suspected. It may be considered during the evaluation of unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding or other relevant clinical presentations.

The referring doctor determines whether this examination is appropriate based on the patient's symptoms and clinical assessment.

How Is a Meckel's Scan Performed?

A prescribed radiotracer is administered, usually through an intravenous injection. Images are acquired using a gamma camera to monitor tracer distribution in the abdomen and identify areas of uptake that may indicate ectopic gastric mucosa.

Additional images or delayed imaging may be required depending on the findings and the prescribed protocol. The nuclear medicine team explains the procedure and expected duration before the examination.

Preparation for a Meckel's Scan

Preparation requirements depend on the patient's age, medical condition and imaging protocol. Follow the specific instructions provided by the nuclear medicine team.

• Bring the doctor's referral and relevant previous investigation reports.
• Inform the team about current medications and medical conditions.
• Follow instructions regarding fasting, food and fluid intake.
• Inform the team about pregnancy or possible pregnancy and breastfeeding, where applicable.
• Tell the team about previous nuclear medicine examinations and relevant treatment history.

Do not stop prescribed medication unless advised by the treating doctor or nuclear medicine team.

Benefits of Meckel's Scintigraphy

Meckel's scintigraphy provides functional imaging information that may help identify ectopic gastric mucosa associated with Meckel's diverticulum. It can support the evaluation of selected patients with suspected Meckel's diverticulum when clinically appropriate.

The accuracy of the examination depends on factors such as the presence of tracer-avid gastric mucosa, the imaging protocol and the patient's clinical condition. Additional investigations may be needed if the results are inconclusive.

Understanding the Meckel's Scan Report

The report may describe areas of radiotracer uptake and whether the observed pattern is suggestive of ectopic gastric mucosa. The findings should be interpreted by a qualified nuclear medicine physician in conjunction with clinical symptoms and other investigations.

A negative result does not completely exclude Meckel's diverticulum, particularly when ectopic gastric mucosa is absent or not detected by the examination.

Meckel's Scan in Hyderabad

Focus Diagnostics provides diagnostic imaging services in Hyderabad. Patients advised to undergo a Meckel's scan should contact the centre to confirm examination availability, preparation requirements and appointment details.

Consult your referring doctor or nuclear medicine team to understand the purpose of the examination and interpretation of the results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Meckel's scan?

A Meckel's scan is a nuclear medicine examination used to help detect ectopic gastric mucosa associated with Meckel's diverticulum.

Why is a Meckel's scan performed?

It may be recommended when Meckel's diverticulum containing ectopic gastric mucosa is suspected, including during the evaluation of unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding.

Does a Meckel's scan use a gamma camera?

Yes. The examination uses a gamma camera to detect radiation from the administered radiotracer and create images of tracer distribution.

Does a Meckel's scan involve radiation?

Yes. The examination uses a radioactive tracer and involves exposure to ionising radiation. The nuclear medicine team selects the appropriate protocol for the clinical indication.

Is fasting required before a Meckel's scan?

Preparation requirements vary according to the patient's condition and the imaging protocol. Follow the instructions provided by the nuclear medicine team.

How long does a Meckel's scan take?

The duration depends on the imaging protocol and whether additional or delayed images are required. Contact the imaging centre for examination-specific timing information.

Can a Meckel's scan detect every Meckel's diverticulum?

No. The scan primarily detects ectopic gastric mucosa and may not identify every Meckel's diverticulum. Results should be interpreted alongside clinical findings and other investigations.

Where can I get a Meckel's scan in Hyderabad?

Contact Focus Diagnostics in Hyderabad to confirm availability of the Meckel's scan and obtain preparation instructions.