What is a nuclear scan used for?
Nuclear medicine scans ( also known as nuclear imaging, radionuclide imaging, and nuclear scans) can help doctors find tumors and see how much the cancer has spread in the body (called the cancer’s stage). They may also be used to decide if treatment is working.
Is a nuclear scan the same as an MRI?
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce high-quality, detailed images of internal body structures. This is a form of non-ionizing radiation. Nuclear medicine uses an ionizing radioactive tracer, usually injected into the blood, to produce images that show function of internal organs.
How is a nuclear scan done?
Nuclear scans use radioactive substances to see structures and functions inside your body. They use a special camera that detects radioactivity. Before the test, you receive a small amount of radioactive material. You may get it as an injection.
Can you drive after a nuclear scan?
Although you will be receiving a very small dose of radioactive material, certain precautions are advised. Avoid close physical contact with pregnant women and children (ages 12 and under) for 12 hours after the test. 9. You will be able to drive yourself home from this test.
How do you feel after a nuclear scan?
Dizziness or chest pain. These symptoms can occur during a nuclear stress test. Some people also have nausea, shakiness, headache, flushing, shortness of breath and anxiety during the stress test. These signs and symptoms are usually mild and brief, but tell your doctor if they occur.
Can I drive home after a nuclear stress test?
Is nuclear imaging safe?
Nuclear imaging is a safe, painless, and cost-effective way of gathering information that may otherwise be unavailable or require a more expensive and risky diagnostic test. One unique aspect of a nuclear imaging test is its extreme sensitivity to abnormalities in an organ’s structure or function.
How long does a nuclear test take?
A nuclear stress test can take two or more hours, depending on the radioactive tracer and imaging tests used.
What is the next step after nuclear stress test?
The nuclear stress test has the ability to quantify the severity of abnormality. Further tests for coronary artery disease after a nuclear stress test should be considered based on several different factors. If needed, usual next step is a coronary angiogram.