|
Your Nuclear Medicine Exam step-by-step
You might have to undergo a scan in a nuclear medicine department. Should you wish to know more about this imaging procedure, you will find some responses to your questions here.
|
|
What is a scintigraphy?
A Nuclear Medicine Scan is sometimes called scintigraphy or a scintigraphic study. It is a recording of the image of an organ. This image provides very important information to the doctor about the functioning of the organ thus increasing the accuracy of the diagnosis. The images are recorded using a Gamma Camera.
|
How does it all work?
A small quantity of radioactive material is injected intravenously to the patient. The fact that a radioactive material is used places this procedure under the category of Nuclear Medicine. Once the radioactive material is injected into the patient there is a slight time delay prior to the start of the gamma camera. The gamma camera moves along the body of the patient taking lots of images of the inside anatomy. The procedure can take place whilst the patient is sitting or lying down, as long as the patient does not move. The patient does not have to get undressed for this procedure, but it is important that all metallic objects are removed, for example, jewellery.
|
How much time elapses between the injection and the start of the gamma camera?
The time that elapses fluctuates between a few minutes to several hours depending on which organ is being examined. It is thus possible that some patients that arrive after you will finish their examination before you.
|
How long does it take to capture all the images?
It varies depending on the examination. The process can last from 15 minutes to an hour. Do not worry if several images are taken, or if the examination time is extended. It is done to make sure that the best possible image is taken.
|
Is it necessary that I stop taking any other medicine that I am taking at the moment?
Depending on the test and your medications, you may need to stop or postpone taking certain drugs. If this turns out to be necessary, the imaging department may inform you about it. If you have any questions, please consult your doctor.
|
Who can benefit from a scintigraphy?
Everyone from young infants to elderly people will benefit from it. If you are pregnant or if your menstrual cycle is late you are obliged to report this to the medical staff before the injection is administered as precautions will have to be taken. You are also responsible to inform the medical staff whether or not you are breast feeding so that they can advise you on the length of time you should refrain from feeding.
|
Is there a specific preparation to be done for this examination?
No, except if specific instructions are given to you at the time when you make the reservation.
Eating and drinking before the examination, in between the injection of the contrast fluid and the scanning as well as after the examination is most typically allowed.
|
What happens after the exam?
You will be allowed to undertake all of your daily activities such as eating driving and working. Though, it might be advised to ingest more fluid than normal in order to “wash” away the last traces of radioactive agent left inside the body.
|
What happens to the medical images?
They are sent directly to your doctor along with the report of the examination. This may vary from place to place. A different procedure to convey results to your doctor may apply in the place where you will be scanned.
|
What do I need to bring along to the examination?
You will normally only need to bring your appointment letter.
Your letter will tell you if any other information or things that may be needed during the tests.
|
|
It is not recommended to bring children to any medical establishment unless it is the child who will be receiving the treatment.
Should you require any further assistance or information, any of the staff of the Nuclear Medicine Department are available for your questions.
|
|
|