DRCG (Direct Radionuclide Cysto-Ureterography) Gamma Scan is a nuclear medicine process performed to measure the functioning of the urinary bladder and detect the reverse direction of urine flow in the urinary bladder to the ureters and kidneys, vesicoureteral reflux (VUR).
Compared with traditional imaging, DRCG is more focused on functional evaluation, allowing the doctor to see how urine flows through the bladder during filling and emptying.
At Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, this scan is conducted with a state-of-the-art gamma camera to provide dependable, precise diagnostic results that are recommended by your physician.
Why is the DRCG Scan Recommended?
The scan is usually recommended in cases where the urinary reflux or bladder functioning needs to be examined in greater depth. It employs low radiation and offers real-time functional information.
A DRCG scan can be recommended by the doctor because of:
Investigation of vesicoureteral reflux (VUR)
Urinary tract postoperative follow-up.
Pathological Reflux Surveillance.
The frequency of urinary tract infection (UTIs).
Elevator bladder emptying.
This test assists in identifying abnormalities of urine flow that can not be noticed by routine imaging.
How is the Procedure Performed?
The DRCG scan is conducted under controlled and sterile conditions by trained nuclear medicine professionals.
Step-by-step process:
The DRCG scan is performed under controlled, sterile conditions by qualified nuclear medicine staff with experience.
Step-by-step process:
Placement of a urinary catheter under sterile conditions
Introduction of a diluted radiotracer into the bladder
Gamma camera imaging during bladder filling
Continuous imaging while the patient voids urine
Detection and recording of any backward urine flow
Duration: 30-60 minutes (this can be shorter or longer depending on the condition of the patient)
Preparation Before the Scan
There is minimal preparation for the operation.
The patients should usually be advised to:
Be hydrated (except when ordered not to be)
Let the doctor know about existing drugs.
History of recent urinary infections or surgery.
Observe hygienic measures before catheter insertion.
Collaborate in imaging and voiding.
In the case of children, they are taken through the process by parents or attendants so as to know they are comfortable and reassured.
What Does the Scan Evaluate?
The results of the DRCG scan present significant functional information, such as:
Vesicoureteral reflux is either present or absent.
Character and rapidity of urine reflux.
Bladder filling capacity
Flexibility of emptying the bladder.
Surgical dynamics of voiding the urine.
This information will help in the proper diagnosis and planning of treatment.
Safety and Patient Comfort
Very small, easy-to-use amounts of the radiotracer are utilized.
Radiation exposure is low in contrast to most other tests of the image.
The insertion of catheters can lead to short-term and minor discomfort.
There are strict measures so that patient safety, hygiene, and privacy are observed.
In Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, the care and comfort of patients would always be considered.
Reports and Results
The reports usually take 2-24 hours to be available
Findings comprise a basic functional evaluation of the reflux and bladder.
Results are well presented in a user-friendly doctor format.
Reports are communicated where needed to be further examined by the medical staff.
Test Availability and Booking
DRCG Gamma Scan is performed in Molecular Diagnostics and Therapy, and we have advanced imaging technologies and qualified specialists.
Test Information
Fasting: Not required
Reporting Time: 2–24 hours*
Test information: Fasting NOT needed
Reporting: Within 2 hours*
NO fasting is needed.
The patient is advised to get urinary bladder catheterization from a nearby hospital under aseptic conditions using an appropriate size catheter or feeding tube.
Please carry all medical documents, including doctor referrals, previous reports, etc.
Female patients are to inform their status of pregnancy and lactation.
उपवास की आवश्यकता नहीं है।
रोगी को सलाह दी जाती है कि उचित आकार के कैथेटर या फीडिंग ट्यूब का उपयोग करके मूत्राशय कैथीटेराइजेशन, पास के अस्पताल से लगा के आए।
कृपया डॉक्टर रेफरल, पिछली रिपोर्ट आदि सहित सभी चिकित्सा दस्तावेज साथ रखें।
महिला रोगियों को अपनी गर्भावस्था और स्तनपान की स्थिति के बारे में सूचित करना होता है।
After registration and payment, the patient's medical history is taken, including checking referral, medical & surgical treatment details, investigation records, etc. Informed consent is also obtained at the same time.
The radiopharmaceutical is administered aseptically into the bladder via a urinary catheter, followed by an appropriate volume of sterile normal saline until the bladder reaches capacity.
The patient is asked to pass the urine in front of the Gamma Camera to see any reflux.
During the process of passing urine, continuous dynamic images are taken.
Procedure may take a total of up to 30 min.
* For details, please see service-related policies