Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear Medicine Hospital in Indore

Radiopharmaceuticals play a pivotal role in nuclear medicine, utilizing minimal quantities for radiology purposes. It is used to examine structure and organ function. The range of nuclear medicines combines different disciplines, including chemistry, physics, computer technology, medicine, and mathematics. This radiological medicine is often used to diagnose and treat abnormalities in the early progression of diseases such as thyroid cancer.

How is Nuclear Medicine used in Diagnosis?

Contrast agents are employed in imaging cancerous tissues as they lack visibility on conventional X-rays due to their ability to pass through muscles, intestines, and blood vessels. The structure and function of organs and tissues can be seen by nuclear imaging. The level of organ function or the tissue under study may be determined by how much a specific organ or tissue absorbs a radiopharmaceutical. So, the main purpose of diagnostic X-rays is to examine anatomy. The primary purpose of nuclear imaging is to examine and research tissue and organ function. 

Nuclear medicine employs radionuclides, administered via inhalation, ingestion, or injection, for diagnosing various conditions, enabling precise imaging and assessment of medical issues. This is a radioactive material. After administering the radiopharmaceutical, patients typically recline as the camera captures images. The camera highlights the region with the highest radioactive concentration, enabling doctors to identify the nature of the issue and pinpoint its location accurately. A tiny amount of radioactive substance is used to assist in the diagnosis. Some of the common tests done by using nuclear medicines are -

• Renal Scans
• Thyroid Scans
• Gallium Scans
• Bone Scans
• Heart Scans
• Breast Scans
• Brain Scans

A heart scan is one of the nuclear medicine tests that is most frequently done - radionuclide angiography and myocardial perfusion. Below is how a radionuclide angiogram scan is performed -

• You will be asked to remove any jewelry which might interfere with the scans.
• You will be given a gown to wear.
• Next, you will be given an IV in the hand or arm. 
• You will be connected to an electrocardiogram machine with electrodes, and a blood pressure cuff will be attached to the arms. 
• Then, the radionuclide will be injected into the vein to tag the red blood cells. 
• You might be asked to change the position.
• After the test, IV will be discontinued, and you will be allowed to leave. 

Note: It is important to lie as still as possible during the procedure. 

What are the Nuclear Medicine Imaging Techniques?

The following are the types of nuclear imaging techniques -

Positron Emission Tomography (PET)

PET is a technique where psychological functions are measured by looking at the metabolism, blood flow, neurotransmitter, and radiolabeled drugs. It uses a radioactive drug called a tracer to show both typical and atypical metabolism. 

Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT)

A SPECT scan lets your doctor analyze your body’s organs, tissue, and bones. It also uses radioactive substances and a special camera to create 3D pictures. 

These imaging tests are particularly helpful for diagnosing thyroid disease, gallbladder disease, cancer, and heart condition. It is also helpful in diagnosing dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, and other brain conditions. Previously, surgical procedures were necessary for diagnosing internal conditions, but nuclear medicine enables non-invasive diagnosis. Additionally, PET and SPECT scans provide insights into treatment efficacy by assessing its effectiveness.

How are Nuclear Medicines used in Treatments?

Nuclear medicine treatments utilize the same substances as those used for diagnosis, offering a comprehensive approach using radiopharmaceuticals. A radiopharmaceutical may be ingested, administered intravenously, or breathed. An example of nuclear medicine is iodine (I-131) which has been used for over 50 years to treat cancer and thyroid. Additionally, it is used to treat non-Hodgkin lymphoma, certain cancers, and bone discomfort. In the future, there is a possibility of incorporating chemotherapy into imaging agents that selectively bind to cancer cells, potentially revolutionizing treatment approaches.

For thyroid treatment using radionuclides, oral ingestion of the medicine is required. On the treatment day, fasting from food and drink is necessary. Thyroid medication should be avoided a week prior to the test as advised by doctors. Depending on the situation, you may be discharged on the same day or kept overnight in the hospital. Over the next 2 to 5 days, the body gradually eliminates the unabsorbed radionuclides.

Precautions After Nuclear Medicine Treatments

After the treatment, you must avoid contact with people, especially children and pregnant women. You must take time off from work, prepare food, and avoid sleeping with others. Also, you must use your toilet twice or thrice after use. Most radionuclide leaves the body through urine, but some are excreted through tears, sweat, vaginal discharge, saliva, and feces. Women are advised to avoid getting pregnant for at least 1 year. 

There are several risks associated with the treatment, but the efficiency of nuclear medicine outweighs the risks. With the advancement of technology, doctors believe the treatment and diagnosis of certain conditions will be more directed toward nuclear medicine.    

Why Choose CARE CHL Hospitals?

CARE CHL Hospital in Indore is known for its expertise in nuclear medicine procedures, with a team of highly skilled and experienced specialists. They are committed to providing precise diagnoses and effective treatment plans. The hospital is equipped with the latest imaging technology and state-of-the-art facilities, ensuring the highest quality of care.