Nuclear medicine imaging:
Theranostics:
Our staff has expert training in a wide array of nuclear imaging scans, including:
If you're claustrophobic or fear enclosed spaces, talk to your doctor before the day of your test. They can prescribe mild sedation to help you relax during the procedure.
Before your nuclear imaging test starts:
Your doctor will give you details on how to prep based on the type of test you're having.
We've listed some standard steps for each nuclear imaging test, so you know what to expect.
Bone scans find:
You don't need to do anything to prepare for a bone scan.
But you should drink extra fluids and pee often between the shot and scan. You'll also have a temporary IV set up.
Your scan can take anywhere from 3 to 4 hours, based on the bones we're scanning.
These tests show the movement of solids or liquids from your stomach into your small intestine.
Instructions to prep for a GET can vary but may include:
For the study, your tech will give you a small amount of food tagged with a tasteless radioactive material, such as:
If you're allergic to eggs, we can give you Ensure.
The study lasts about 4 or 5 hours.
HIDA scans show the function of the gallbladder.
Common ways to prep before your HIDA scan include:
On the day of your HIDA scan, you'll have a temporary IV set up. The test takes anywhere from 90 minutes to 4 hours.
Renal scans assess:
Test prep often includes:
On the day of your renal scan, you'll have an IV or a Foley catheter. The scan takes between 20 minutes and 2 hours.
Stress tests measure your blood flow and the function of the heart muscle.
Your doctor will give you specific instructions before your test. They may include not eating, drinking, or taking certain medicines several hours before.
You'll have your stress test at the hospital. It takes about 2 or 3 hours.
Thyroid uptakes and scans look at the size, shape, location, and function of the thyroid gland.
Prep can vary but may include:
On the day of your test, we may give you a pill or an IV. The uptake and scan take more than 24 hours from start to finish.
VQ scans detect blood clots in the lungs, a condition called pulmonary embolism. You'll have this test at the hospital.
With most VQ scans, you'll need to:
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