What is a Nuclear Medicine Examination?
Nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials, called isotopes, to obtain diagnostic information about organs and tissues. These isotopes emit rays that represent the size, shape, and function of the organ being examined.
The rays are detected by a specialized camera and displayed as images on a computer screen.
What can you expect during the exam?
You will be positioned on a scanning table under a special camera. A radionuclide will be injected or taken orally, allowing the camera to detect certain organs and evaluate their function.
Most scans require multiple images and may involve changing positions during the exam. You will be asked to remain still while the images are captured. Each scan typically takes about three minutes, though some may take longer. Movement during the scan may require additional images.
For your personal safety
If you are scheduled for a nuclear medicine examination, please inform your doctor or technologist if you are:
- Pregnant or think you may be pregnant
- Allergic to iodine or other materials
- Currently undergoing radiation therapy
- Diabetic
Instructions for you
Some imaging procedures require preparation before the exam. It is important to follow the instructions carefully to ensure the best diagnostic images.
The following preparation instructions are organized by procedure. Please locate your procedure and follow the guidelines below.
Bone Scan (Plain)
- The exam requires an injection followed by a three-hour waiting period before imaging.
- You should drink plenty of fluids after the injection.
- The imaging portion takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
Bone Scan with or without Flow
- The exam requires an injection followed by a three-hour waiting period before imaging.
- You should drink plenty of fluids after the injection.
- The imaging portion takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour.
Cardiac Nuclear Study
- No food or drink for six hours before the exam.
- No caffeine (including decaffeinated coffee) for 48 hours before the exam.
- The exam may take approximately four hours to complete.
Gastric Emptying Study
- No food for eight hours before the exam.
- No barium studies for four days before the exam.
- Avoid gastric medications before the exam.
- The exam typically takes about two hours.
Liver/Spleen Scan
- You may eat and drink normally.
- The exam typically takes about two hours.
Meckel’s Diverticulum Scan
- No food or drink for twelve hours before the exam.
- The exam takes about one and a half hours.
MUGA Study
- You may eat and drink normally.
- The exam takes about one and a half hours.
Thyroid Uptake
- You may have breakfast but should skip lunch. Water is allowed.
- The exam takes two days to complete.
Thyroid Scan
- You may eat and drink normally.
- The exam takes about one and a half hours.
Vasotec Renal Scan
- You may eat normally.
- Drink plenty of water before the exam.
- The exam takes about two hours.
Hepatobiliary Scan
- No food or drink for six hours before the exam.
- The exam takes about two hours.
- If IV extravasation occurs (leakage of fluid into surrounding tissue), cold compresses will be applied immediately. Hot compresses may be used afterward and the area may be elevated if necessary. Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin may be taken for discomfort. If symptoms persist longer than 48 hours, contact your ordering provider or the Outpatient Diagnostic Center.
If you have questions, please contact one of our Outpatient Diagnostic Centers.