What Is Nuclear Medicine Imaging?
Nuclear medicine imaging is a diagnostic technique that uses small amounts of radioactive material called radiotracers to evaluate organ function and detect disease.
The tracer may be injected, swallowed, or inhaled depending on the type of study. A specialized camera detects the energy emitted and creates images that show how tissues and organs are functioning.
Because it evaluates function rather than structure alone, nuclear medicine can detect abnormalities before they are visible on CT, MRI, or X-ray.
Why Choose Baptist Health?
Our nuclear medicine program combines advanced technology with experienced specialists to deliver accurate results and coordinated care.
- Board-certified radiologists and nuclear medicine specialists
- Advanced PET, SPECT, and therapeutic radiopharmaceutical capabilities
- Close collaboration with oncology, cardiology, endocrinology, and neurology teams across South Florida
Need a Prescription?
If you don’t have a prescription yet, our team can help. Baptist Health providers can review your risk factors and determine whether you qualify for screening.
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Frequently Asked Questions
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A nuclear medicine imaging scan can take 1 to 4 hours, depending on the type of scan you need. The scheduling team will tell you how long to plan for your appointment.
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Nuclear medicine imaging is considered safe, as it uses very small doses of radiation to create images that assist in diagnosing or treating diseases. While the procedure is painless and side effects are rare, patients are advised to drink plenty of water afterward to help flush the tracer from their bodies. Additionally, it's recommended to maintain a safe distance from individuals sensitive to radiation exposure, such as babies and pregnant individuals, for a few hours post-procedure.
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Yes, nuclear imaging is generally safe. It uses very small amounts of radioactive material — called radiotracers — which are carefully selected and administered in a way that minimizes exposure while still providing clear diagnostic information. The level of radiation used is typically comparable to or even lower than that of a standard X-ray or CT scan.
Key Safety Facts:
- Low Radiation Dose: The radiotracers used in nuclear medicine emit minimal radiation and are quickly eliminated from the body, usually through urine or stool.
- Highly Regulated: Nuclear imaging procedures are strictly regulated by organizations such as the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), ensuring patient safety.
- Noninvasive and Painless: The procedure does not involve surgery or invasive techniques, and most patients report little to no discomfort.
- Safe for Most Patients: For most individuals, including older adults and those with chronic conditions, nuclear imaging poses no significant health risks. However, pregnant or breastfeeding women should inform their provider, as alternative imaging options may be considered.
- Expert Supervision: At Baptist Health, nuclear medicine imaging is performed by experienced technologists and interpreted by board-certified radiologists, further ensuring safety and accuracy.
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If you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or are breastfeeding, tell your provider before your exam. Special precautions or alternative imaging may be recommended.
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Yes, you’ll receive a tracer that has a small dose of radiation to highlight key areas in your body. However, the level of radiation is very low, and our team follows guidelines to ensure your safety.
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No, a nuclear medicine imaging scan is painless and noninvasive.
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Wear comfortable clothing and avoid metal objects such as jewelry when possible. You may be asked to change into a gown depending on the type of study.
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A radiologist reviews your images and sends a report to your referring physician, typically within 24 to 48 hours. The fastest and easiest way to see your results is through the PineApp. The Baptist Health app helps you easily manage your healthcare — including imaging results — from any mobile device.
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Radiotheranostics combines diagnostic imaging with targeted nuclear medicine therapy. The same or similar radiopharmaceutical is used to identify disease and then deliver personalized treatment based on imaging results.
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Both are types of nuclear imaging. PET scans are often used in cancer evaluation and provide highly detailed functional images. SPECT scans are commonly used for cardiac, brain, and bone imaging.
Proven Quality
Baptist Health nuclear medicine imaging scans produce clear, high-quality images your provider can use to tailor your care plan. We are accredited by the American College of Radiology, so our medical imaging staff have the needed experience and qualifications to safely conduct nuclear medicine imaging.