Nuclear Medicine is a painless and safe method to scan the body to study the structure and function of body organs and bones using radiation from radioactive tracers. Nuclear Medicine procedures often identify abnormalities very early in their progress of a disease long before medical problems are apparent with other diagnostic tests.
Radiopharmaceuticals are safe. Like any medicine, they are prepared carefully and tested before using on the general public. The risk of side effects is very low. The radiopharmaceuticals commonly used are quickly eliminated from the body through its natural functions. The dose is carefully selected to be safe by the Nuclear Medicine Technician.
Nuclear Medicine imaging is available through our IQ network at Sunshine Coast Radiology, located in the Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital in Kawana. A referral from your GP or Specialists is required for this imaging.
You will need to book in for imaging using Nuclear Medicine with a referral from your doctor. Our friendly booking team will advise you at the time of booking on how to prepare for your appointment.
Dependent upon the request from your doctor, the procedure involves the injection, swallowing or inhalation of a small amount of a chemical substance tagged with a radioactive tracer – a radiopharmaceutical. The radiopharmaceuticals give off gamma rays and are designed to concentrate in the part of the body being investigated, where there could be an abnormality or disease, e.g. skeleton, lungs, heart or liver. A special camera – a gamma camera then moves around the body, providing a series of images of the radioactivity occurring in that area.
Prior to your scan and to ensure optimal imaging, you may be asked to change into a gown. A change cubicle will be provided to ensure your privacy and you will be asked to bring your belongings will you, carry baskets are provided. You will be asked to place your belongings in a suitable location within the room for the duration of your scan. After your scan, you will be provided with a change cubicle to ensure your privacy. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you prior to leaving the department. If you accidentally leave anything behind, please contact our staff to advise and we will endeavour to locate your belongings and return them to you.
Sunshine Coast Radiology (part of the IQ network) at the Sunshine Coast University Private Hospital, Doherty Street, Birtinya.
Most Medicare eligible examinations are bulk billed. Fees may apply for some procedures. Our friendly reception staff will advise you on the cost of your procedure at the time of your booking.