Compiler Update-Scans are in my immediate future -- descriptions?

OK, here's my latest update.

In 1 week, I will be getting a QCT bone density scan. My understanding is this will be quick and painless. No needles or prep -- just 5 minutes under the gun and the radiation amount isn't too bad either.

In 2 weeks, on the same day I will get a whole body bone scan and a CT-scan of the abdomen and pelvis using oral and IV contrast. I guess I'm supposed to pick up the "prep" beforehand. When they said "prep" I said oh crap. I thought it was a bowel prep, but I guess it is just a contrast. Supposedly I do the prep and then start off with an injection (I guess for the bone scan) and later the IV. Can some of you elaborate on what's involved. Am I correct about the prep (the scheduling person didn't explain it too well).

In about 3 weeks I will meet for the first time with a local medical oncologist to go over the results of all these tests.

At about that time I will do one more PSA and I may do one more telephone consultation with Dr. Scholz or his partner, Dr. Lam, just to discuss HT and any last-minute concerns I have. Maybe I'll get a miracle and the PSA will stabalize (and hence no HT -- hey, I can dream on!)

Mel

Ditto on the 3 bottles of solution for the CT, but find out about what kind of Ct they are going to do. My CT involved the inclusion of the 'balloon" in your rectum to expand your intestine for purposes of the scan (I forget what its called). Was the worst test I've ever had, You body is telling you to crap because your bowel is full but you have to resist the urge because if you expell the balloon you have to start all over again. And you know a Ct takes a good 20-30 minutes. its all very degrading

Sorry for the reality check, but this forum is about honesty. Better for you to know then not to know

Mel,
No issues with the scans. You can get the contrast agent in different flavors; I had bannana. The IV is for the bone scan and again it is a cake walk. It's doubtful that the scans will pick up anything , but at least you will have a baseline. The bone density is the easiest of all, just lay there for a few minutes.
JT

Mel:

Bone density is as you stated, in and out, no issues. I had one pre HT a year ago and another coming up at the end of November even though I am now off of HT. Just a comparison to see if any bone loss from first test after HT.

In October of last year and again a year later, I had a CT scan as a monitoring after being off of HT. Drank two large containers of lemon flavoured liquid. Injection of dye, then full body scan. about 2 hours from beginning to end. I believe I had to fast.  No issues with bowels but I was allowed to urinate as needed.  You'll do just fine Mel. Both are non-invasive. They give you a baseline before starting HT, just like PSA and T levels for baseline.  I responded quick and well to HT but I am certainly enjoying my break from it.  Any questions just ask.

Jack 

Got it Mel. Have responded.

Jack