What is a Lymph scan?
A lymph scan is a test to show the lymphatic drainage in your limbs.
You have been given three appointment times.
• On the first appointment we will give you an injection of a small amount of radioactivity in the web space between your toes or fingers depending on whether we are asked to investigate your arms or legs.
• We will then scan both arms or both legs to enable us to assess the lymphatic drainage. This will take around 20-30 minutes.
• On your second appointment time we will perform further imaging of your arms / legs, this will be similar to the first scan. This will take around 30 minutes.
• On your third appointment, we will perform further imaging. This will also take around 30 minutes.
• The appointment times you have been given may be altered as everyone’s lymphatic systems work at different speeds. We may need further imaging if necessary.
During the intervals between your appointment times you may leave the department if you wish or remain in our waiting room.
If you have any queries or are unable to keep this appointment please notify us by telephone as soon as possible. This will enable us to offer this appointment to another patient on our waiting list. We are available Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm on 01253 953661.
You will be able to eat and drink as normal on the day of your scan. It is not necessary to get undressed for the scan but we would like you to remove any metal items from your person, such as keys, coins or a belt.
There is no need to stop any of your medication prior to your scan. The injection will not react with any medications.
Do I need to do anything special after the scan?
After your scan you may eat and drink normally. You will still be able to drive a car. The radioactivity will disappear naturally from your body and will all be gone within 24 hours.
How will I get the results of my scan?
The results will be sent to the hospital consultant who referred you for the scan. Some consultants will write to you with the results of the scan and others will send you an appointment to return to the outpatient clinic.
The injection contains a small amount of radioactive tracer which emits gamma rays (these are similar to X-rays). We use the smallest dose possible in order to provide as much information as we can about your condition. The radiation dose is very low and is similar to the natural background radiation we all receive from the environment over a period of 2 weeks.
The results of your scan will provide your doctor with useful information about your condition and will help them to plan your treatment. The benefits of having the scan far outweigh the small radiation dose you will receive.
Further guidance has been published by Public Health England, visit website – https:// www.gov.uk/government/ publications/ionising-radiation-from-medical-imaging-examinations-safety-advice
Alternatively, use an internet search engine to search for “PHE medical imaging ionising radiation”.
Is there anything I should tell the staff before the injection?
Please tell us if you are or may be pregnant. If you are breast feeding, please ring the department a few days before your appointment.
Additional Information
Directions to X-ray Central
X-ray Central is situated in Area 4 which is off the main hospital corridor and is signposted. Please follow the signs for X-Ray Central and report to reception on arrival.
Relatives and escorts
If you require support during your appointment you may bring one accompanying adult with you. They will not usually be allowed into the examination room. If you have any additional needs, please let us know prior to your appointment.
Please do not bring along anyone who is pregnant or under 18 years of age.
Car Park
Car parking is in the multistorey car park at the main entrance of the hospital. Car park charges apply at this hospital. Please bring change with you if you are planning to park on site. You can pay via debit/credit card at the multi-storey carpark.
Other facilities available
At the main entrance to the hospital there is a cafe and shops selling light meals and snacks. There is also a large restaurant for both staff and visitors to use.
Leaflet Number 227758-BLA-PL/552
Review Date 01/09/2027
Author Elizabeth Millington.
