RadteraMeckel Diverticulum Scan (Tc-99m Pertechnetate)
NM+ ContrastAbdomen & Pelvis
Indications
- Detection of ectopic gastric mucosa in Meckel diverticulum
- Evaluation of painless lower GI bleeding, especially in children/young adults
Patient prep
- Fast 4-6 hours (reduces gastric secretions/peristalsis)
- Avoid recent barium studies (attenuation artifact)
- Avoid recent in vivo Tc labeling / perchlorate
- Pharmacologic enhancement optional: pentagastrin, H2 blocker (cimetidine/ranitidine pretreatment 1-2 days enhances retention), or glucagon
Contrast
AgentTc-99m pertechnetate (taken up by gastric mucosa)
RouteIV
DoseAdult ~10 mCi (370 MBq); pediatric weight-based ~50-100 uCi/kg
TimingDynamic/serial imaging immediately and for ~30-60 min
Technique
- LEHR collimator, 140 keV, supine, abdomen/pelvis in FOV
- Dynamic acquisition ~1 min/frame for 30-60 min
- Anterior abdomen; lateral/oblique and post-void views to separate from bladder/ureter
- Cimetidine premedication (blocks pertechnetate secretion, increases mucosal retention) improves sensitivity
Series / Sequences
| # | Series / Sequence | Plane | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dynamic abdomen/pelvis | Anterior | 1 min/frame x 30-60 min; focus appears synchronous with stomach |
| 2 | Lateral / post-void | Lateral / anterior | Distinguish ectopic mucosa from bladder/ureteral activity |
Key points
- Positive: focal uptake (usually RLQ) appearing and intensifying with the stomach
- Cimetidine pretreatment enhances sensitivity by reducing pertechnetate washout from mucosa
- False positives: GU activity, inflammation, intussusception; false negatives: small/no ectopic mucosa
- Empty bladder to avoid masking pelvic lesions
References
• SNMMI Procedure Guideline for Meckel Diverticulum Scintigraphy
• Radiopaedia: Meckel scan link
• Radiopaedia: Meckel scan link
Source: Researched — verify against your institution
‹ PreviousHepatobiliary Scan (HIDA, Tc-99m Mebrofenin +/- CCK/Morphine)Next ›Renal Cortical Scan (Tc-99m DMSA)
Reference template — verify and adapt to your scanner, vendor and institution before clinical use. Not a substitute for clinical judgment.