Salivary gland scintigraphy

In patients with prostate cancer, a salivary gland function scintigraphy must be performed before a radio-ligand therapy, and may also be required for post-therapeutic follow-up. This helps to detect possible functional abnormalities causing dryness of mouth. Dry mouth can occur as a possible side effect after multiple radio-ligand therapies.

How is a salivary gland scintigraphy performed?
After an intravenous access has been placed, the radiopharmaceutical (Tc-99m) is injected whilst the patient is positioned in a supine position under the gamma camera. Dynamic images of the salivary glands are acquired for 30 minutes.

What do I have to consider as a patient?
For the salivary gland function scintigraphy, you must be fasting, i.e. you should neither drink nor eat. In addition, you must not brush your teeth or smoke beforehand.

Duration of examination: approx. 45 minutes