SERVICES - Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine is used in special cases.

If you have been referred for an examination, please call for more information.

The Procedure:

Nuclear Medicine procedures are performed to evaluate the distribution of small amounts of specially prepared tracers that target specific areas for analysis. After your physician refers you to Tower Diagnostic center for the study, you will receive a capsule to take orally or an I.V. injection. This material localizes in the bone, thyroid, liver or other structures of the body. You will then lie on a table and the distribution of the material is carefully evaluated to determine if an abnormality exists. One of the purposes of a nuclear medicine study is to determine function as well as anatomic structure of an organ.

How The Test Is Performed:

During the procedure you will be awake and feel no discomfort. Our technologist will explain the procedure to you before your exam begins. Once you have entered the room, the entire examination should last approximately 1 hour (some exams take longer). It is important to be still and relaxed during the scanning procedure.

Inform The Technologist If:

• You are pregnant or nursing your baby.

Time Allotment:

1 Hour (sometimes delayed sequences are necessary which will take additional time.)

After Your Exam:

You can resume normal activities after your exam.

Test Results:


Patient Education:

We realize that diagnostic testing makes many patients anxious. Please do not hesitate to ask questions about the exam process or anything else that will make your experience at Tower more comfortable.

Preparation:

Special preparation may be necessary for the nuclear medicine examination and you will be given instructions by your physician or the Tower Diagnostic Center staff. Most often, a small intravenous injection is required. Either immediately or up to four hours after the injection, your body will be scanned.

Click here for exam preparation

Back to other services