Nuclear medicine
Nuclear medicine is a branch of radiology that provides unique functional information about how organs and tissues are working, not just their structure.
It uses small amounts of radioactive materials (radionuclides) to help diagnose and treat disease. These materials are most often injected into a vein but may also be taken by mouth or inhaled.
A special camera called a Gamma Camera detects the radiation and creates images that show how the material is distributed in the body. These images may be two-dimensional (planar) or three-dimensional (SPECT).
Some procedures measure how much material is taken up by an organ, while others help guide surgeons in locating specific tissue during a procedure.
All materials are prepared by trained, licensed nuclear pharmacists. Exams are performed by specially trained nuclear medicine technologists under the supervision of a physician.
Common uses of nuclear medicine
- Coronary artery disease and heart function
- Tumor localization
- Infection imaging and localization
- Thyroid disease evaluation and treatment
- Lung disease such as pulmonary embolism
- Kidney function assessment
- Bone and orthopedic imaging including fractures and infection
- Gastrointestinal bleeding detection
- Gallbladder inflammation (acute cholecystitis)
- Urinary tract disease including obstruction and reflux
- Treatment for hyperthyroidism (Graves’ disease)
Safety
Nuclear medicine has been used safely for more than 60 years. Millions of procedures are performed each year in the United States.
Radiation exposure is low and similar to other imaging tests. Your provider considers the benefits of the exam compared to any minimal risk.
Please tell your care team if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant. If you are breastfeeding, you may be asked to pause for a short time depending on the exam.
Where can you get nuclear medicine imaging?
- Lawrence Hospital – South Pavilion, 1 General St., Lawrence, MA 01841
- Methuen Hospital, 70 East St., Methuen, MA 01844
How do you schedule your exam?
To schedule your nuclear medicine exam or ask questions, call Merrimack Health Central Scheduling at 844-920-7473.