DTPA A renal scan involves the use of radioactive material to examine your kidneys and assess their function. A renal scan is also known as a renal scintigraphy, renal imaging, or a renogram. During this procedure, a technician injects a radioactive material called a radioisotope into your vein. The radioisotope releases gamma rays. A gamma camera or scanner can detect gamma rays from outside your body. The gamma camera scans the kidney area. It tracks the radioisotope and measures how the kidneys process it. The camera also works with a computer to create images. These images detail the structure and functioning of the kidneys based on how they interact with the radioisotope. Images from a renal scan can show both structural and functional abnormalities. This helps doctors diagnose a kidney problem in its earlier stages without invasive techniques or surgery Ref Harrison20th edition pg 223