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Nuclear medicine is a technique that allows doctors to assess the function of different parts of the body. A small amount of radioactive material called a tracer is given to the patient, normally by injecting it into a vein. After a period of time, the distribution of that tracer within the body is measured with a gamma camera. Occasionally blood samples are taken too.
Are there any risks?
The amount of radiation in the tracer and is equivalent to the radiation you are exposed to when you have an x-ray. The benefits of the scan far outweigh any potential risk from the radiation. The tracer will not produce any side effects. In particular, it will not make you drowsy and you will be able to drive after your appointment.
Nuclear medicine
Prevention and surveillance
Detection and diagnosis
Treatment of cancer
Living with cancer
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
As a general rule these investigations are not carried out on pregnant women unless clinically justified. In such cases, the dose of radioactivity administered will probably be reduced.
If the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding the department should be advised as soon as possible to determine if the investigation should proceed and to give appropriate advice.
What happens during your test
For the vast majority of nuclear medicine studies, you will not need to prepare. However some studies have specific requirements which need to be adhered to. Instructions for these studies will be given to you prior to your appointment.
Unlike CT or MRI scans, the scanners used are not like 'being in a tunnel'. If you are worried about feeling claustrophobic, please speak to the radiographer before your test. There are several methods we can use to make the scan easier for you. We will discuss this with you at the time.