Nuclear medicine is a safe and painless technique for imaging the structure and function of organs, soft tissue and bones, and diagnosing their abnormalities. Nuclear scans use a very small amount of radiopharmaceuticals; called “tracers” — that are designed to travel to specific areas of the body.

 
The tracer is administered before the exam either orally or by injection, depending on the type of procedure. Once in position, the tracer emits gamma rays that are detected by a camera, helping the radiologist to pinpoint data about the area of the body in question. The amount of radiation is very small and the body typically eliminates the tracer material within 24 hours.

Nuclear scans are useful in detecting abnormalities in the structure of an organ, such as blockage, infection, fractures, degenerative changes or tumors. In general, nuclear medicine scans take from 30 to 60 minutes.

The Pictorial Archival Communication Technology is a digital reporting system that allows your radiologic procedures to be transmitted to the neuroradiologist and your private physician within minutes. By the time you are dressed and ready to go, doctors can be reviewing your radiologic procedures and making healthcare decisions. No more carrying films from doctor to doctor.