Whats the difference between Ultra scan or Thyroid Scintigraphy? When would they be used?

[angelharley]

I've had an Ultrsound scan of my thyroid but I'm awaiting an appointment for a Thyroid Scintigraphy I think!

I have Hashi's and my thyroid blood tests are all over the place due to negligence of GP and just wondered what test is best for looking at the thyroid gland?

[silverfox7]

Sorry I haven't a clue but if you click on the green tags below your post if will take you to similar posts and may be you can then message the folks who have asked the same thing. Mentions something about looking at the blood flow so may be its to see if that is adequate and your natural production is being transported around the body. I'm inly fuessing at that though.

[White_Mist]

Hiya

Have had 2 scintigrapy scans in France for thyroid problems. The time that process takes can vary depending on what your doctor has asked for - so be warned could take 2 hours, it could take 5-6 hours. It involved 2 scans with a time interval in-between.

A small radio active product is injected in a vein then a quick scan is taken about 10mins afterwards. Then there is a gap which could be between 1 to 5 hours - I was not allowed to leave the premises during which time I had to drink 1.5 litres of water (so take a couple of bottles with you). Afterwards a 2nd scan is taken, which will take longer than the first one and can take up to 45 mins. I guess for before and after images for the radiologist to make his assessment.

When you are given an appointment there should be a set of instructions enclosed with it that should be more or less the same as above. No big deal really, just could be quite a bit of time hanging around so take something with you to fill the time. My total time was just over 4 hours the first time and just 3 hours the second time. .

The radioactive product is naturally eliminated through urine and handwashing afterwards is a must. No specific aftereffects that I am aware of.

The machine is like a CT scanner (ie doughnut shaped) - no noise.

My GP chose the scintigaphy scan over the CT scan - each of which are readily available in France so he could have chosen either. As the qualities of the 2 machines are too complicated for me to understand I cannot comment on which one is best or why he chose the scintigraphy scan specifically for thyroid.

These are my experiences in France. I guess that the process is more or less the same - just the appointment waiting time is different.

Hope it all goes well for you.

White Mist

[angelharley in reply to White_Mist]

Thank you for giving me your own personal experience, it's been very helpful x