Medical Imaging: Nuclear Medicine

What is nuclear medicine? 

Nuclear Medicine is a safe, painless process used to image the body and treat disease. Nuclear medicine is unique in that it is extremely sensitive to abnormalities in an organ’s structure or its function. It offers early detection and is used in the diagnosis, management and treatment of serious disease, which may result in a more successful prognosis.

Nuclear Medicine uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiopharmaceuticals. These substances are attracted to specific organs, bones or tissues, which, in turn, are detected by special types of cameras. The amount of radiation is comparable to that received during a regular x-ray.

The nuclear medicine radiologist is able to select the most appropriate exam for each patient, avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure.

Was this page helpful?

If you would like us to follow-up with you to provide assistance, please enter your preferences for how you wish to be contacted below:

Personal information is collected under the authority of the Public Hospitals Act R.S.O. 1990, CHAPTER P.40 for the purpose of contacting the sender in response to an inquiry. If you have questions about the collection of this information, please contact a Privacy and Freedom of Information Consultant, Mount Hope Centre for Long Term Care, 21 Grosvenor Street, Room WB31, London Ontario, N6A 1Y6. Phone: 519-646-6100 ext. 64545.