Nuclear medicine

What you need to know about your visit to the department of nuclear medicine    

What does the department of nuclear medicine do?
The Department of Nuclear Medicine performs diagnosis and therapy using chemical substances (radionuclides) that only produce a small amount of radiation. These substances travel through the bloodstream to a specific organ in the body. This organ can then be shown and monitored on a very sensitive piece of apparatus known as a gamma-camera. "Monitored" means that the target organ can be shown at different moments so as to get an impression of the functioning of the organ. Sometimes it is only necessary to take one image but usually a more extensive examination is needed. Radionuclides can also be used for therapy.

How is a scintigram made?
A small amount of radioactive fluid is introduced into your body (generally this is injected into a blood-vessel in your arm). This fluid has no particular side effects. You will sometimes have to wait a little before the scans (scintigram) can be performed. The waiting time depends on the type of examination and you will be told about this in the department. Whilst the scan is being taken, you must lie or sit absolutely still. In order to obtain the clearest possible images, the gamma camera will be placed right above and/or under your body. You may go home immediately after the examination.  

Can the radiation be harmful?
No, you will be given only a very small amount. The substances, which are injected into your body have been extensively tested and cannot damage your health or your surroundings provided you follow our instructions. Within 24 hours, the substances will have been eliminated


from your body. Hypersensitive reactions seldom occur. As an extra precaution, we do advise pregnant women to warn us of their condition.  
N.B. The amount of radiation present in this type of' examination is usually lower than in a normal X-ray procedure.

Is the examination painful?
No, you only feel the injection. This can be compared with the "prick" you feel when you have a blood test. You will neither feel the fluid itself nor will you feel sleepy. So, straight after the examination, you can drive a car, ride a bicycle or travel on public transport. You need not expect any side-effects.  

Do I need to make special preparations for the scintigram?
This depends on the type of examination. There are different instructions for patients undergoing therapy (see the folder about therapy). Your specialist will tell you about this.  

May I bring someone with me?
It is always nice to have someone you trust with you but please do not bring young children. The person, who has accompanied you to the hospital, will not be allowed to be with you during the examination.

Do I have to do anything special after the examination?
Yes, for the rest of the day you should drink more than you usually do. The radioactive fluid will then be eliminated from your body quickly and efficiently. You should wash your hands after using the toilet (W.C.).  

Can I go straight back to work after the scan?
Yes, but if you do have any doubts, you can ask us for advice. The result The nuclear specialist will study the images and will make a written report. He/she will not discuss the outcome with you. The report will be sent to the doctor, who requested the scan, and he/she will speak to you about the result.

For parents and expectant parents
If I am pregnant?
You should inform us in advance if you are pregnant or even if you think you might be pregnant. The fluid, with which you are injected, can get into the baby. You will be told of the precautionary measures you will have to take. Sometimes, it would be better to postpone the examination. There is, however, no problem with starting a pregnancy after the examination. If you have young children, you should ask the nuclear specialist if, in your case, there are any specific precautions you will have to take.

Breastfeeding
Radioactive substances can get into the mother's milk. You should inform us before the examination if you are breastfeeding your baby. We can then discuss with you if you need to stop breastfeeding or postpone the examination.  

Can children be examined on the scintigram?
Yes. Children are given a lower amount of radioactive material. The actual quantity depends on the height, weight and age of the child.  

You may still have questions. If so you can contact the Department of Nuclear Medicine in the Bronovo Hospital.
The secretary can be reached on working days between 08.15 and 17.00 hours on telephone number: 070 - 312 40 70.