Download nuclear medicine - scan - Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals

Not to be photocopied
Patient Information
Author:Radiology
Produced and designed by the Communications Team
Issue date Feb 2015 - Review date Feb 2018 - Expiry date Feb 2019
This information can be
provided in a different
language or format
Version 1
Ref no. PILCOM1727
Information for patients having a
radioisotope (nuclear medicine) scan
(e.g. large print or audio
version) on request.
This leaflet tells you about having a nuclear medicine scan. It explains what is
involved and what the possible risks are. It is not meant to replace informed
discussion between you and your doctor, but can act as a starting point for such
discussions. If you have any questions about the procedure please ask the
doctor who has referred you for the test or a member of staff.
The radiology department
This is a smokefree Trust.
Smoking is not allowed
in any of our hospital
buildings or grounds.
The radiology department may also be called the X-ray or imaging department.
It is the facility in the hospital where radiological examinations of patients are
carried out, using a range of equipment, such as a CT (computed tomography)
scanner, an ultrasound machine, a MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scanner
and a radioisotope scan (nuclear medicine).
Radiologists are doctors specially trained to interpret the images and carry out
more complex examinations. They are supported by radiographers who are
highly trained professionals and carry out X-rays and other imaging procedures.
What is nuclear medicine?
The Trust will not tolerate
aggression, intimidation or
violence
Nuclear medicine is the name given to the use of radioactive isotopes to
produce an image of a part of the body. These isotopes emit gamma rays,
which are similar to X-rays. The radiation does not stay in your body for very
long, as the isotope decays within a few hours.
The isotope can be injected into a vein, swallowed or inhaled. Radiation from
the isotope is then detected by a special camera, called a gamma camera, and
an image is produced on a screen, building up a picture of the area of the body
under investigation. Unlike ordinary X-rays, nuclear medicine can be used to
show how well an organ is working, as well as what it looks like.
To keep the radiation dose to patients as low as possible, the amount of
radioactive isotope is kept very low. This means that it may take quite a long
time (up to 30 minutes) to build up a picture.
Basildon University Hospital
Nethermayne
Basildon
Essex SS16 5NL
01268 524900
Some scans will involve an injection and then a delayed scan either hours or
days later.
Other scans may involve an injection and breathing in a radioactive gas.
Minicom
01268 593190
Patient Advice and
Liaison Service (PALS)
01268 394440
E [email protected]
W www.basildonandthurrock.nhs.uk
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Are there are any risks?
As the gamma rays are similar to X-rays, there are small risks associated with being exposed to radiation.
However, the radiation decays away over a period of a few hours and the total amount of radiation involved is
kept to a minimum. This is comparable to the natural radiation we all receive from the environment over about
two years. This adds very slightly to the risk of, for example, developing a cancer. However, the added risk is
very small and the risks from missing a serious disorder by not having a scan may be considerably greater.
Am I required to make any special preparations?
Yes. You may have to stop certain medications and you may need to fast before your scan. Your appointment
letter will clearly state any preparations necessary. You should eat and take medications as normal unless you
are told otherwise.
After the injection you should drink plenty of fluids – at least six to eight cups of fluid before the scan – unless
you normally have to restrict your fluid intake. You will probably need to empty your bladder frequently. If
you leave the radiology department you do not need to take any special precautions, but if you stay in the
department then you should use the special toilet for nuclear medicine patients. Within the department the
toilets are clearly signposted.
What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you are pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, it is very important that you inform the department before
coming for your scan, and certainly before the isotope is administered.
As some radioactive substances are excreted in breast milk, if you are breastfeeding, please inform staff on
arrival and you will be advised as to whether you will need to take any precautions. You may be advised to
avoid breastfeeding for a few hours afterwards.
Can I bring a relative/friend?
Yes, but for reasons of safety they may not be able to accompany you into the examination room, except in
very special circumstances.
What will happen when I arrive?
You should go to the main X-ray reception at Basildon Hospital, unless stated otherwise in your appointment
letter. You will then be given directions to the Nuclear Medicine Department.
The radiographer will explain the procedure, and you will have the opportunity to ask any questions. You may
be asked some questions about your health, or whether you have had this examination before.
The radiographer, or a radiologist, will then give you an injection of radioisotope preparation into a vein. This is
normally the one near your elbow or into the back of your hand.
Unless you are needed for any pictures early on in the process, there will be a delay of 30 minutes up to
4 hours, depending on what type of scan you are having, to allow the isotope to be absorbed by the organs or
bones. If you are an outpatient you may leave the hospital during this delay.
Who will I see?
You will be cared for by a small team comprised mainly of radiographers. A radiologist will subsequently
examine the images before writing a report on the findings.
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What happens during the scan?
Before your scan, you will be asked to visit the special toilet to empty your bladder. You will be asked to
remove any jewellery or metallic objects such as keys, coins or buckles. If you are wearing clothing with
no metal fastenings you will not need to undress. You will be taken to the examination room and made
comfortable lying on the couch. The radiographer will position the gamma camera above and below the part
of your body being investigated and ask you to lie still. You can breathe normally throughout. Sometimes,
the scanning couch will move slowly in order to scan the whole length of your body or the camera may rotate
around you.
The radiographer will remain in the room with you and will watch the images as they are displayed on
a monitor. Afterwards, it may be necessary to arrange for one or two X-rays to be taken, to give extra
information.
Will it be uncomfortable?
No. Apart from the injection, you will not feel anything.
How long will it take?
It will depend on what type of radioisotope scan you are having. The actual scanning process usually takes
30 minutes to one hour. Any variations to this will be mentioned in your appointment letter.
Are there any side effects?
No. The injection causes no side effects and will you not feel sleepy. You can drive home afterwards and go
about your normal activities.
If you are breastfeeding or are a parent with young children, please notify the radiographer. They will explain
that it is advisable not to have prolonged close contact with your child for the rest of the day, to avoid their
being exposed to unnecessary radiation.
When will I get the results?
The scan will be examined after your visit and a written report on the findings sent to your referring doctor
which is normally available in 14 days.
Finally
Please be aware that the isotope preparation required for this examination is ordered especially for you and
delivered from Southend Radiopharmacy. Delays may occur due to traffic problems or unforeseen problems
within the Radiopharmacy. If you are not able to attend, please let the department know in good time, so that
your appointment can be used for someone else.
Some of your questions should have been answered by this leaflet, but remember that this is only a starting
point for discussion about your treatment with the doctors looking after you. Make sure you are satisfied that
you have received enough information before your procedure.
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