Diagnostic
Services
Radiology
Services - Nuclear
Medicine |
How
is the procedure performed?
The radiopharmaceutical is usually administered into a vein
or given orally, depending on which organ system is being
studied. The organ system also determines what kind of radiopharmaceutical
will be used for the study. The imaging may be done immediately,
a few hours later, or even several days after administration
of the radiopharmaceutical. The wide range in scanning times
is attributed to the time it takes for the radiopharmaceutical
to concentrate in the organ system of interest.
Images obtained are acquired through a Gamma Camera, which
detects the emitted light or radioactivity of the radiopharmaceutical
in the body. A computer enhances the acquired images. The
series of images reflect how a certain organ functions over
time.
After the procedure, the Nuclear Medicine physician checks
the quality of images to ensure that an optimal diagnostic
study has been performed and makes the report for the referring
physician.
Who interprets the results
and how do I get them?
When the exam is completed, a physician specially trained
in Nuclear Medicine will review the images, prepare a report,
and discuss the results with your doctor. Your doctor will
then explain the results to you and discuss what further
procedures, if any, are needed.
What are common therapeutic
indications of Nuclear Medicine?
The most common conditions treated by nuclear medicine are
hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and thyroid cancer.
Newer indications include relief of pain from arthritis
non-responsive to medications, certain tumors that have
spread to bones, and inoperable liver cancer.
Precautionary
Information
Nuclear medicine procedures are not recommended for pregnant
and/or lactating women unless absolutely needed. If you
are, or suspect you may be, pregnant or if you are breastfeeding,
discuss the matter with your physician before undergoing
any procedure.
The
Department of Nuclear Medicine is located at the Upper Ground
Floor. For inquiries, please call us at (63 2) 771-9000
to 02 ext. 8141.
