Lasix Renal Scan

A lasix renal scan takes pictures of the kidneys, ureters, and bladder to see if they're properly formed and working together correctly.

Kidneys filter and clean the blood to produce urine. Urine passes out of the kidneys down through the ureters and into the bladder. When the bladder is full the urine passes out of the body through the urethra.

If these parts don't work as they should, your doctor will choose a treatment method best suited for your child.

What's a Lasix Renal Scan Like?

Children must lie very still for the entire test. You can stay with your child to provide company and support.

Your doctor may give your child medication, called sedation, to help them fall asleep if they're having trouble lying still.

A nurse injects a radioactive fluid into your child's vein. This fluid gives off rays that a special camera placed close to the body can see.

Then, an IV is used to give fluids, and a catheter is inserted to measure urine. The fluid travels through the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The pictures taken during this time show how well fluid travels to the kidneys. This lasts for about 30 minutes. 

Then, your child is given Lasix. Lasix is a medicine that makes fluid leave the body quickly, known as a diuretic. While the fluid is leaving, more pictures will be taken as the kidneys empty.  

How Long Does the Test Take?

It takes about 1-2 hours to take the pictures. It may also take an hour to prepare your child for the test.

After the test, your child will remain in the recovery area. 

Usually, the results of the test will be available to your doctor within 24 hours. They will contact you to go over the results, and decide what steps should happen next.