Meckel's Diverticulum

Overview

The Meckel's Diverticulum Nuclear Medicine Study depicts the uptake of pertechnetate within the abdomen. As a small molecule with a single negative charge, pertechnetate is secreted into the stomach as well as any ectopic gastric mucosa.

Indications

  • Detection and localization of a Meckel's diverticulum containing functioning gastric mucosa.
  • Detection and localization of other pathologic structures containing gastric mucosa.

Study Description

The patient is brought into the imaging area and the radiopharmaceutical is administered intravenously. A series of images of the abdomen will begin approximately five minutes later and will continue intermittently for 45 minutes post injection. On occasion, imaging may be extended to 60 minutes.

Examination Time

  • 1 hour 15 minutes

Patient Preparation

  • Ensure the patient is not pregnant or breastfeeding.
  • NPO (nothing by mouth) for at least four hours and better if NPO for 8 hours.
  • No intestinal irritants for three days prior to the exam. These include: barium, laxatives and aspirin.