Nuclear Medicine
What is Nuclear Medicine?
Nuclear Medicine is the administration and imaging of a radioactive amterial to better understand the function of the body. The radioactive material is administered either orally or intravenously.
Examples of Nuclear Medicine:
Cardiac Stress Test – used to look at the arteries supplying blood to the heart. MUGA (Multi Gated Acquisition Scan) – used in diagnosing heart disease.
Other examples include Iodine-131 and other nuclear scans – more information on these two areas can be found below.
Iodine–131 Therapy
Iodine – 131 therapy is a treatment that is administered by our radiation oncologist who specializes in radioactive medicine. You will be scheduled for two appointments at which time the physician will explain radioactive treatment to you.
If you will need radioactive iodine treatment, the physician will need to calculate a specific dose for you. The dose will need to be ordered and it will take three business days for the radioactive medication to be received. The radioactive medication cannot be stored at the clinic so it is important that you keep your scheduled appointments.
How Is Iodine Therapy Given?
The radioactive I-131 will be dispensed by Nuclear Medicine. A survey will be performed by the physics staff to verify that the capsule(s) has/have reached the stomach for absorption.
What To Expect for Follow-up Care?
Arrangements will be made for you to return for follow-up evaluation in six weeks. Thyroid function studies will be obtained one week prior to that appointment.
Nuclear Medicine Scan
This scan is especially useful in the diagnosis of abnormalities of the bone, gallbladder, heart, liver, or thyroid. The scan will produce highly detailed pictures by computer which will be reviewed by specially trained and certified technologists and physicians.
The scan requires the use of a tiny amount of radioactive material called radionuclide - it is introduced into your system orally or with an IV. In this type of medical application, radioactivity is used beneficially - the procedure is completely safe and painless.
Preparing for your Nuclear Scan
It may be required that you fast or refrain from taking certain medications - be sure to consult with your physician. When you report for your appointment, you will be asked to remove all metals and jewelry, and you will need to provide your complete medical history. The complete scan will take between 1 to 1 ½ hours.
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