Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear medicine is a subspecialty within radiology, offering specialized cardiac studies that are safe and painless. It comprises diagnostic examinations that result in images of body anatomy and function. Nuclear medicine scans can often identify abnormalities very early in the progression of a disease- a time when treatment may be more successful. The images are developed based on the detection of energy emitted from a radioactive substance given to the patient. The images show the shape, structure, and function of organs, soft tissues, and bones. Radiation to the patient is, generally, similar to that resulting from standard x-ray examinations.
How does it work?
You are given a compound, usually intravenously but sometimes orally, containing a small amount of a radioactive substance that localizes in specific body organ systems. This compound, called a radiopharmaceutical or tracer, eventually collects in the organ and gives off energy as gamma rays. The gamma camera detects the rays and works with a computer to produce images and measurements of organs and tissues.
Nuclear medicine images can assist the physician in diagnosing diseases. Tumors, infection and other disorders can be detected by evaluating organ function. Specifically, nuclear medicine can be used to:
  • Analyze kidney function
  • Image blood flow and function of the heart
  • Scan lungs for respiratory and blood-flow problems
  • Identify blockage of the gallbladder (cystic duct)
  • Evaluate bones for fracture, infection, arthritis or tumor
  • Determine the presence or spread of cancer
  • Locate the presence of infection
  • Measure thyroid uptake to detect hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism

What should I expect?
Usually, no special preparation is needed for a nuclear medicine examination. However, if the procedure involves evaluation of the stomach, you may have to skip the meal immediately before the test. If the procedure involves evaluation of the kidneys, you may need to drink plenty of water before the test.

Some discomfort during a nuclear medicine procedure may arise from the intravenous injection, usually done with a small needle. With some special studies, a catheter may be placed into the bladder, which may cause temporary discomfort. Lying still on the examining table may be unpleasant for some patients. The radiopharmaceutical loses its radioactivity generally over 24 hours. It passes out of the body in the urine or stool.

For specific instructions/restriction on exam preparation, please refer to our Patient Prep Instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: How long will this take?
A: Some exams require an injection a few hours prior to the actual scan. The nuclear medicine scan itself takes 30-60 minutes.

Q:Where will the injection be given?
A: In a vein in the arm.

Q: May I eat or drink beforehand?
A: For most scans, no preparation is required. If you are having a bone scan, drink plenty of water the day before and the day of your scan.

Q: How long will the tracer stay in my body?
A: Most of the tracer will be excreted through your urine within 24 hours.

Q: Are there any side effects?
A: Side effects or adverse reactions are very rare. You will not feel anything from the radioactive substance itself.

Q: Why do I need to bring my previous scan or x-rays?
A: Our radiologists will want to compare those studies to the new scan.