Radiology
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine
Nuclear Medicine imaging allows doctors an inner look at various organ functions or anatomy in the body. Patients are administered a small amount of radioactive substance, either by IV, or less frequently, by mouth. Radiologists then study images that show how the substance has distributed within or moves through the body. This helps them in diagnosing many conditions and diseases, like infections and tumors.
Common scans include bone scans, bone marrow scans, parathyroid, gastric emptying, white cell imaging (HMPAO) for infection, hepatobiliary (HIDA) gall bladder, testicular flow & scan, and thyroid uptake and Scan.
There are also some radioactive therapies administered in nuclear medicine such as I-131 for hyperthyroidism and Ra-233 XOFIGO for prostate cancer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Procedures can last from 45 minutes to 2 hours on the imaaging table. The amount of time involved to complete your scan will depend on the type of study your physician has requested. The procedure will begin with the administration of the radioactive “tracer” which is specific to your type of exam. It is just a small diagnostic quantity and you will not feel any affects from it. Sometimes imaging begins on the scanning table as the isotope is administered, and other times, you will receive the tracer upon arrival and then be asked to return at a specific time for the imaging.
The nuclear medicine scanner is made up of two square cameras arranged like a sandwich, which detects the distribution of radioactive material in your body. This allows us to scan both front and back simultaneously, as needed for some exams.
Preparation depends on exam type. Instruction will be provided to you when you schedule your appointment. It can vary from fasting, or abstaining from certain drugs prior to exam, or to no preparation at all.
One of our subspecialized physicians will review your scan and send a report to your physician. Your physician will contact you to discuss the results.
Visit our locations page for more information. Imaging modalities and associated studies vary by location. Please contact us to schedule your visit at a convenient location near you.
Request an appointment online or contact us at 716-631-2500.
Please check with your insurance plan to confirm that the procedure is covered. You may be responsible for all or a portion of the bill. Payment may be required at the time of service. For questions regarding insurance coverage, and/or billing please call (716) 631-2500.
