Nuclear medicine
This specialty uses tiny amounts of safe, targeted "tracers" plus leading-edge cameras to show how your organs are working. These tests help your care team diagnose problems, plan treatment, and check how therapies are performing.
Nuclear medicine procedures we offer
Nuclear medicine sometimes is called nuclear imaging and radionuclide imaging. Our specialists provide safe, accurate imaging with patient comfort and low radiation exposure in mind. Some common nuclear medicine scans we offer include:
Bone scan (whole body or targeted)
Cardiac stress and rest blood flow scan (myocardial perfusion SPECT or PET)
FDG PET and CT (oncologic PET)
Gastric emptying study
Hepatobiliary scan (HIDA)
Lung ventilation-perfusion scan (VQ)
Renal scan (MAG3, DTPA or DMSA)
Thyroid scan and uptake
All our radiologists are board-certified physicians who have advanced fellowship training in interpreting nuclear medicine studies. Our technologists are trained and experienced in conducting nuclear diagnostic imaging. Rest assured that you’ll received high quality care and personalized attention from the radiology teams at each of our locations.
How to prepare for a nuclear medicine scan
- You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam. For some studies, patients are allowed to wear their own clothing.
- Tell your physician and the imaging technologist if you are breastfeeding or if there is any chance you may be pregnant.
- Your doctor will provide detailed instructions specific to the type of nuclear medicine scan you are scheduled to have.
- Some procedures require a dye injection known as a tracer. The injection usually takes place in the morning, followed by scanning in the afternoon. Bring reading material if you plan to stay on-site during this time.
- To avoid delays, bring a written copy of the testing order or confirm that it appears in MyChart.
Nuclear medicine study results
A board-certified radiologist will closely examine and interpret your nuclear imaging test results. They’ll send a signed report to your primary care physician or the doctor who referred you for the exam. Results will also appear in MyChart.
From imaging to therapy
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