Nuclear imaging allows your doctor to see pictures of your organs to determine how well they are functioning and to detect conditions such as tumors, infections, bone fractures, arthritis and blood flow problems. You are given a special agent or medication, called a radioactive material, either by mouth or through a vein. As the radioactive material collects in the organ or body part being studied, a camera detects the material and produces detailed pictures of that area. The type of material used and the time it takes for the imaging to be completed can vary widely, depending on which parts of your body are being tested. Any instructions prior to procedure or after being given the radioactive material will be explained by the technologist.
Your technologist will take you to an imaging suite, and you may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
You will lie on a table and be positioned under a large camera.
An IV needle will be inserted into a vein in your arm, where a radiopharmaceutical will be injected. However, in some cases, you may be given the material by mouth instead, mixed with food or liquid.
Depending on which type of test you are receiving, the imaging may be done immediately, a few hours later, or even days after you receive the material. Your technologist will let you know if the pictures will be taken immediately or if you need to return at a later time. Some procedures require images done in several days’ succession.
It is important that you lie very still while the camera is working because movement can make the pictures look blurry and unclear.
Once the pictures are taken, your IV needle will be removed and you will be free to leave, unless directed otherwise by your doctor.
All Nuclear Medicine exams must be scheduled. Please call 304.526.2125 to schedule.