Nuclear Medicine

Understanding Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine imaging uses small amounts of radioactive materials that are typically injected into a vein. The material travels to the area being examined and gives off energy in the form of rays which are detected by a special camera to create images of the inside of your body.

Did you know...

Nuclear Medicine uses small amounts of radioactive tracers to visualize organ function, helping to detect diseases at an early stage, often before structural changes are visible

Who Needs Nuclear Medicine Services?

Nuclear Medicine is a common diagnostic imaging modality for individuals experiencing back pain, bone pain, fractures, thyroid conditions, gallbladder concerns and more.

In many cases, x-rays may be performed first and if nothing is found, Nuclear Medicine services may be used to investigate further.

Nuclear Medicine is also commonly used for cancer patients to monitor any progression or spreading of the cancer.

Choosing CAMIS for Nuclear Medicine

At CAMIS, we pride ourselves on providing the expert care you deserve and delivering a comfortable and reassuring Nuclear Medicine experience.

We understand that any exams can feel intimidating , so we want to prioritize empowering you with information surrounding the Nuclear Medicine services and make you feel as comfortable as possible. Please don’t hesitate to call us if you would like to be further walked through the process of any of our services.

Nuclear Medicine Services

Bone Scan
Parathyroid Scan
HIDA Scan
MUGA (Heart) Scan

Preparing For Your Appointment

PATIENT PREPARATION

All Scans
- Dress comfortably, with loose easy to remove clothing.
- Avoid clothing with metal fasteners and zippers.
Bone Scan
- Drink 500 ml (2 cups) of water just prior to your appointment time. You may empty your bladder.
- If you have renal impairment DO NOT drink additional fluids. You may empty your bladder.
- You will receive an injection of a radioactive tracer and be asked to return anywhere from 2½ to 4 hours after the injection.
- When you return, imaging takes 45 minutes to 1 hour to complete.

HIDA Scan
- Do not eat or drink a minimum of 4 hours prior to your appointment time.
- At the time of booking you may be asked to discontinue some medications.
- You will receive an injection of radioactive tracer and images will be taken over a period of time.
- This exam usually takes 2 hours to complete, but on occasion can take up to 4 hours.
MUGA Scan
- There is no special preparation for this exam.
- You will receive 2 injections, with a 20-30 minute waiting period between them.
- Imaging begins after the second injection and usually takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
Parathyroid Scan
- There is no special preparation for this exam.
- Please inform us if you have had prior surgery in the neck area.
- You will receive an injection of a radioactive tracer. The first set of images are taken shortly after the injection.
- The second set of images are taken approximately 2 hours after the injection.
- Each set of images can take up to 45 minutes.
- Total time to complete the exam is about 3 hours.

Covered by Alberta Health Care

Referrals are necessary for all bookings

Common Questions About Nuclear Medicine

What if I am travelling from out of town for my appointment? (Red Deer Only)

We are pleased to offer a preferred hotel rate at the Red Deer Resort & Casino for patients travelling to our Red Deer clinics.

This may be a convenient option if you:

Are travelling from out of town
Have multiple exams scheduled on the same day
Prefer to arrive the day before your appointment
Have an early morning appointment

Please ask our team about these special rates when booking.

What are the side effects of Nuclear Medicine tracers?

Side effects from the radioactive tracers used in Nuclear Medicine are generally very rare and mild. If they occur, short-term side effects might include a temporary headache or mild upset stomach. Serious allergic reactions are extremely uncommon. Our team will review your medical history for any contraindications and monitor you closely. Always inform the technologist if you experience any unusual symptoms during or after the procedure.

What should I expect during and after a Nuclear Medicine scan?

The process for each Nuclear Medicine exam varies depending on the specific type of scan. Regardless of the exam, a specialist radiologist will interpret your images, and a report will be sent to your doctor. Here’s a general overview for common exams:

Bone Scan: An injection of a radioactive tracer is given; images are taken approximately 2.5 to 4 hours later. Depending on the bone scan exam, occasionally images are taken shortly after the injection. Each imaging session can last up to 1.25 hours.

Parathyroid Scan: You will receive an injection of a radioactive tracer. The first set of images are taken shortly after the injection. A second set of images are taken approximately 2 hours after the injection. Each set of images can take up to 45 minutes. Total time to complete the exam is about 3 hours.

HIDA Scan: After a radioactive tracer injection, images of your gallbladder and bile ducts are taken over a period that usually last approximately 2 hours, though these can extend up to 4 hours in some cases.

MUGA Scan: This exam involves the injection of a small amount of a pharmaceutical, followed by an injection of a radioactive tracer about 20-30 minutes later. Imaging to assess the heart function begins after the second injection and typically lasts 30 to 45 minutes.

Do I need a referral from a physician?

Yes, for all exams, a valid referral (requisition) from a licensed physician or nurse practitioner is required. We cannot perform your service without this referral.