Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine scans are diagnostic examinations in which radioactive material, or isotope, is injected and travels through the bloodstream to the target organ. These isotopes transmit a pattern of rays representing the organ size, shape and function. The rays are detected by a special camera which, when coupled with a computer, produce a characteristic image on a screen. The radiation dose is quite small, with half the dose out of the body in six hours and almost all is gone in 24 hours.

East River's Millenium MG permits whole body and spot imaging as well as tomographic slices like a CT scan. You will be asked to rest on a padded table during the exam. Studies of the liver/spleen, gallbladder, kidneys, and breast are performed right after the injection. Bone scans are performed between 2 and 3 hours after, and a gallium scan is performed 2 to 3 days after receiving the agent. Depending on the type of exam, the time required for scanning is usually around one hour. Music is provided for your comfort.

Nuclear Medicine Preparation Instructions