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How it works
Nuclear Medicine scans use a radioactive tracer called a radiopharmaceutical. This radiotracer is usually injected or swallowed, then images are taken using a gamma (SPECT/CT) camera. Different radiotracers are used to assess different parts of the body.
Nuclear Medicine can be used on many parts of the body, including:
- Bones and joints
- heart and lungs
- Gastrointestinal
- Endoctrine system
What to expect
Nuclear Medicine is a non-invasive way to assess organ function.
When you arrive, a technologist will take a brief medical history. Please bring a list of your medications and any recent imaging you've had. The radioactive tracer will be administered, usually through a vein in the arm. You may be lying on a scanner bed for up to an hour during imaging.
You may also need to return later for delayed imaging. If so, the technologist will give you a time to return.
Day of the scan
- 1-2 days before the scan. Stop medications if required.
- Morning of the scan. fast if required.
- 30-60 mins procedure. The scan.
- Up to 4 hrs later. Delayed imaging (time provided on day)
- All imaging complete. Time to go home.
Frequently asked questions
What special diet is required for my Nuclear Medicine scan?
For most nuclear medicine scans you can eat and drink normally before the procedure. If you need to fast, you’ll be told at the time of booking.
What should I wear for my scan?
Comfortable clothes with no metal. You may be asked to change into a gown and remove jewellery prior to the scan.
Is the radiation harmful?
Nuclear Medicine tests are considered to be a safe procedure. The radioactive tracer only remains in the body for a few hours. The radiation dose from the tracer varies for each test but is similar to the dose from a CT scan.
You may be asked to avoid close contact with pregnant women and small children for a few hours after the scan. It's important to tell us at the time of booking if you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or the primary/sole carer for small children so we can discuss special arrangements.
How will I feel after my scan?
There are no side effects to the test. You can safely drive, eat, and drink as normal after the scan. However, you may be asked to avoid close contact with pregnant women and small children for a few hours after the scan.
How is Nuclear Medicine different from X-rays and CT?
X-rays and CT provide structural information about an organ. Nuclear medicine is used to assess how the organ or bodily system is working. The imaging modalities are often complementary, each providing a piece of the puzzle to help diagnosis or assessment.
Can I take my medication on the day of the test?
Most medications can be taken as normal with plain water. For some tests, such as cardiac or thyroid, you might need to stop some medication. You'll be told this when making the booking. Please bring a list of your medications to the appointment.