Nuclear Medicine

The images produced by Nuclear Medicine exams are the result of the detection of energy emitted from a radioactive substance which is administered to the patient either orally or intravenously.  Nuclear Medicine studies provide functional information that is unique from all other diagnostic modalities and unattainable from other imaging procedures.  These studies are often invaluable in assessing organ function which can then lead to the diagnosis of tumors, infection or other disorders.

A patient undergoing a nuclear medicine study is given a small dose of radioactive material which eventually collects in the organ to be studied and gives off energy as gamma rays.  The gamma camera detects these rays and with the help of a computer, produces images and measurements of organs and tissues.

Nuclear medicine studies may be ordered to:

• Analyze kidney function
• Scan lungs for respiratory and blood flow problems
• Identify blockages of the gallbladder
• Evaluate bones for infection, arthritis or a tumor
• Determine the presence or spread of cancer
• Identify bleeding in the bowel
• Located the presence of an infection
• Measure thyroid function

Scheduling a Nuclear Medicine Study at Delnor

To schedule a nuclear medicine study, call Central Scheduling at (630)762-6400.
A physician order is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why can’t this test be done today?

Most radiopharmaceuticals can not be stored in the hospital.  They are ordered from the vendor and it may take a few days for them to arrive.

How much radiation am I exposed to?

Tiny quantities are used for diagnostic purposes.  The drugs lose most of their radioactivity within hours to days, and are quickly eliminated from the body.