Targeted Imaging, Clearer Diagnosis
A special branch of imaging, nuclear medicine uses small amounts of radioactive substances called radiotracers to diagnose disease and evaluate functions within your body.
Taken orally or by intravenous (IV) injection, the radiotracers accumulate in targeted organs or tissue, giving off energy that a gamma camera can capture. These tiny amounts of radioactive material show your doctor how your organs or tissue are functioning, allowing for diagnosis, or they can be used to target and destroy damaged organs or tissue.
With hospitals and imaging centers in Tampa Bay, Polk County, Ocala and the Heartland, we have nuclear medicine services near you.
What To Expect for Your Nuclear Medicine Scan
Before your nuclear medicine scan, you’ll receive detailed instructions, which may list dietary restrictions or stopping certain medications beforehand.
Be sure to tell your imaging technician about any medications you’re taking, allergies or recent illnesses.
Many people who struggle with confined spaces can tolerate this kind of scan due to the openness of our scanner.
On the day of your scan, please wear loose-fitting clothing without zippers, clasps, buckles, buttons or any metal. Any metal objects—including jewelry, hair clips, and pins — should be left at home or removed before the exam.
As the procedure begins, you’ll be given the radiotracer either by intravenous injection, in pill form or in food. For the scan, you’ll be asked to lie still on a padded table while the scanner generates the images. The length of the imaging scan will vary based on the kind of test.
You may leave as soon as your exam is finished. Unless you receive special instructions, you may eat, drive and resume normal activity right away. You may also take your medications. If you took medication for anxiety before the scan, please arrange to have a friend or family member drive you home.
Your results will be sent to your ordering physician within two business days. If you have any questions, don't hesitate to ask your nuclear medicine technologist.
Award-Winning Imaging You Can Trust
Our AdventHealth Sebring and AdventHealth Wauchula hospitals have been designated as Diagnostic Imaging Centers of Excellence by the American College of Radiology.
Find Diagnostic Imaging Near You
Comprehensive Imaging and Whole-Person Care
Whether you need nuclear medicine or another type of imaging, know that the care you need is nearby in your area. We offer a variety of imaging services at convenient locations across Florida’s Gulf Coast. Our experienced teams will work to get you your results quickly so you can get the care you need to thrive in body, mind and spirit.