Nuclear Medicine
Modern, Innovative Care
Nuclear medicine is a unique branch of radiology that involves injecting radioactive materials into a patient, allowing specialized cameras to capture images inside the human body. In some cases, nuclear medicine methods are even used to treat illnesses, as well.
Our health network offers the latest advances in nuclear medicine to our patients throughout New Jersey. If you have been scheduled for nuclear medicine procedure and have questions, contact the facility where your appointment is scheduled today.
Understanding Nuclear Medicine
The materials that are injected or consumed by the patient for a nuclear medicine procedure are called radiotracers. Once introduced to the patient's body, these radiotracers will travel around, eventually into the area where doctors need to see into. The radiotracers give off a safe amount of gamma rays that are then captured by specially calibrated cameras.
What parts of the body in nuclear medicine used for?
- Brain
- Heart
- Bones
- Lungs
- Bowel and intestines
- Gallbladder
- Many other areas of the body
Nuclear medicine is a critical tool for doctors and specialists because it can produce images and offer insights that other radiological procedures cannot.
Have Questions or Concerns?
Some patients express concern over the level of radiation they will be exposed to during a nuclear medicine procedure. However, radiotracers used in these screenings give off the same amount of radiation as a traditional x-ray.
If you have other questions about how to prepare for your procedure or what to expect at your appointment, speak with your doctor or radiologist before your screening.