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.
REMEMBER: To tell your doctor or technologist, if you are:
Pregnant or think you may be
Allergic to iodine or other materials
Undergoing radiation therapy
YOU SHOULD ALSO:
Wear comfortable clothing
Avoid wearing jewelry – metallic objects may interfere with the
accuracy of the image.
Be sure to ask the Radiologist or technologist any questions
relating to your examination.
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 the 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
cameras to detect certain organs and their functions. 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, some may take
longer. Movement may result 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. You doctor will advise you of the amount of time needed for your
particular exam.
HOW WILL I LEARN THE RESULTS?
The Radiologist will send your doctor a written report. Please contact the
physician who referred you for this procedure to discuss the findings.
