Nuclear medicine
Nuclear medicine is a specialised area of radiology. It uses small amounts of radioactive medications to image and sometimes treat diseases.
While tests like X-rays show the structures inside the body, nuclear medicine scans can also show how the inside of your body is working.
Who we care for
We provide services to anyone requiring a nuclear medicine scan.
What you can expect
You will receive a booking letter. This will have a booking time and date, preparation details and an estimated appointment duration. You may also receive a phone call from a receptionist, nurse or technologist.
Appointments can take between 15 minutes and 6 hours, depending on the part of your body being investigated.
A small number of nuclear medicine tests require you to attend over multiple days.
On the day of your appointment radioactive medications (radiopharmaceuticals) are given to you before your scan. They are usually injected into a vein, but depending on the type of scan, may also be swallowed or inhaled. The amount of radiopharmaceutical used is very small. Radiopharmaceuticals are considered very safe and leave your body within a few hours or days after the test. Side effects are rare.
Images may be taken immediately after the radiopharmaceutical is given or a few hours later. This is because it takes different amount of time for the radiopharmaceutical to reach different parts of the body.
A special camera called a gamma camera (SPECT/CT) is used to capture images that show how the radiopharmaceutical moves through your body. In some cases, a CT scan may also be required. This is performed using the same machine. Most nuclear medicine scans involve lying on your back for approximately 20 to 60 minutes.
Special Considerations
Pregnancy/Breastfeeding
If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, please telephone the Radiology department before your appointment. This information helps us ensure your safety and choose the most appropriate imaging with you.
Referrals and access
- A referral is required from your GP or medical specialist to make your appointment. Please bring this with you to your appointment.
- We accept referrals and requests from all imaging providers.
- Appointments are essential.
- To make an appointment, call 03 5320 4270 or 03 5320 4271. Referrals can also be faxed to 03 5320 4830 or emailed to radiologyoffice@gh.org.au.
- Patient name, date of birth, phone number, and address must be included on the referral. If using fax or email, you will be contacted via mail or phone call with the appointment details.
- Non-urgent results are sent to your referring doctor within 2 working days. We cannot give your results directly to you.
Services that are covered by Medicare are bulk billed with no additional fees. Out-of-pocket fees apply to services not covered by Medicare.