NUCLEAR MEDICINE

What is nuclear medicine?

Nuclear medicine is a sub-specialty area of diagnostic imaging that uses very small amounts of radioactive material to show the function of different parts of the body.

You will be given a small dose of radiopharmaceutical by injection into a vein, through inhaling or by ingesting orally, depending on which area of the body is being assessed.

The radioactive material localises in specific parts of your body and is then detected by a gamma camera, creating an image of the area.

Normally there is a delay between the administration of the isotope and the scan that can range from several minutes to several hours. For example, the thyroid gland is scanned almost immediately after administration of the substance, whereas for a bone scan you will be asked to return approximately 3 hours after injection, during which time the radiopharmaceutical will have been taken up by the bones.

On completion of the test, your specialist nuclear medicine physician will examine the images and send a report directly to your doctor.

Before the appointment

Preparation is generally not required before a nuclear medicine test, but occasionally you will be asked to fast for 2–4 hours prior to the scan. This will depend on the type of nuclear medicine scan being performed.

Our bookings staff will provide you with information regarding any necessary preparation and will outline specific instructions prior to your scan. Unless otherwise stated, you may drink and eat as usual.

A booking is necessary for all nuclear medicine procedures. The locations of our nuclear medicine services are listed on your Capital Radiology referral, or you can find your most convenient Capital Radiology site by viewing our locations. We accept all radiology referral forms, so even if you have a form from another service provider we will happily perform your test.

Please remember to bring:

  • Your referral form

  • Medicare card / concession card

  • Any prior imaging

FAQs

Can I take my normal medicine before a nuclear medicine test?

It is recommended that you check with either your referring doctor or Capital Radiology staff about whether you can take your usual medications prior to a scan.