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| Nuclear Medicine |
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Nuclear Medicine involves the use of radioactive materials, or isotopes, to obtain specific diagnostic information.
These isotopes transmit a pattern of rays representing the organ size, shape and function. The rays are detected by a special camera which, when coupled with a computer, produces a characteristic image on a screen.
What Will the Exam Be Like?
 The individual who will be performing the examination on you is known as a Nuclear Medical technologist. This technologist has completed a rigorous course of education and training, and works under close supervision of the radiologist (a radiologist is a physician who specializes in the study of imaged tests such as Ultrasound, x-rays, etc.) to assure the most accurate results from your exam.
Your technologist will gently position you on the scanning table under the camera. A radionuclide will then be injected or taken orally. This makes it possible for the camera to detect certain organs and their functions. The amount of radiation to which the patient is exposed is minimal and of no significant danger. The radionuclide or tracer material is eliminated from the body in a day or two. Complications or side effects are rare.
Most scans require many different images and perhaps a few position changes. You will be asked to lie still. Each scan will take about three minutes, although some may take longer. Movement may results in the need for additional scans.
How Long Will the Exam Take?
Time may vary significantly depending on the nature of the study and other factors. Your doctor will advise you of the amount of time needed for your particular exam.
How Will I Learn the Results?
A nuclear medicine physician will study the examination and consult with your doctor, who will then advise you of the results.
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