What is Nuclear Medicine?
It's a branch of diagnostic imaging that uses trace amounts of radioactive pharmaceuticals to image the function of many organs and body systems. We commonly examine the heart, bones, lungs, kidneys,liver, stomach and thyroid gland. The tracer, usually injected into an arm vein, concentrates in the organ or area of interest. The gamma camera moves close over the area, building an image from the radiation emitted. A sophisticated digital system then analyzes, stores and displays the images, which go to our medical imaging specialists for interpretation.
Nuclear Medicine procedures can provide unique information about many conditions. Used alone or combined with other imaging tests, they can make a rapid and accurate diagnosis of a wide range of medical and surgical conditions.
What preparation is required?
Most procedures have little or no preparation. Lake Imaging will give you specific
instructions when making an appointment. Do bring along any relevant previous X-rays or scans you may have. We may also contact you by phone before the appointment if more involved preparation is needed. After the scan, you are not restricted in any way. The small amount of radiation still being emitted does not pose a danger to anyone. The only exceptions are if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or receiving radioactive therapy rather than a scan. In these cases, we will discuss any precautions beforehand.
How long will the scan take?
The timing for scans varies. We may need you to return several hours after your injection, for two or three visits over one day, or the scan may be finished in just one session of 30 minutes.
Occasionally a procedure will extend over several days. We will explain the timing when booking. Once the scan is finished, your doctor will receive the results usually within 24 hours.