Nuclear Medicine is an imaging test based on the function of internal organs. Unlike conventional X-ray, which determine the presence of disease based on structural appearance. Among organs often studied are the heart, lungs, thyroid, gallbladder and liver. Nuclear Medicine involves the use of a small amount of radioactive material called a tracer, and a special camera to form an image. The tracer may be injected, inhaled or swallowed.

Nuclear Medicine can detect a wide variety of diseases. It can be helpful in determining the function of internal organs as well as bones. Nuclear Medicine is also very useful in analyzing damaged organs or tissue including heart disease. Your physician will determine if there is a clinical indication for a Nuclear Medicine exam.

What are the Preparations for the Exam?

There are various preparations for each exam, please confirm with our office for specifics when scheduling your appointment.

Prior to having pictures taken, you will be given a small amount of a radioactive material.  This will be taken up specifically by the part of the body that will be imaged.  You will then need to wait for a predetermined amount of time until the images may be obtained. 

You will be escorted into the Nuclear Medicine room, and asked to lie on the soft padded table. This time will vary depending on your exam being performed, but typically is between 30 and 60 minutes.  

Only a  Nuclear Medicine Technologist registered by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists  will perform this specialized exam.

Upon completion of the exam, a Board Certified Radiologist will interpret the procedure and a report will be sent to your physician.  All results are also available by fax by phone depending on your physician’s preference.

Bone Scan

Thyroid Scan

Muga Scan