Treatments: Thyroid cancer, hepatomas, bone metastases in prostate cancer and knee treatment with Ye90, hyperthyroidism. Also neuroendocrine tumour diagnostic tests; in neurology, study with neuroreceptors.

Monitoring by nursing staff during injections to avoid any risk of tampering.

Frequently Asked Questions:

WHAT ARE RADIOPHARMACEUTICALS?

They are compounds that are introduced into the body, where they emit a small amount of radiation that is detected by gamma cameras in order to study the morphology and functioning of the organs.

This radioactive signal is amplified and transformed into an electrical signal that is analysed by a computer and represented as an image, in greyscale or colour, with intensity proportional to the energy received. It is therefore possible to study how the radiopharmaceutical reaches the organ, its distribution, and subsequent elimination.

HOW LONG DOES A TEST LAST?

This depends on the test requested. From 15 to 90 minutes. There are tests that require several scans on the same day, and others on different days. You will be duly informed whenever multiple scans are necessary.

Waiting time will depend on the scan to be performed. Not all patients have to wait the same length of time, meaning patients who have arrived later may be passed through first.

IS THE SCAN PAINFUL OR UNCOMFORTABLE?

No, not at all. You will be injected with the required dose of product by intravenous injection (just like a blood draw). It will have no effect on you, and will not prevent you from going about your normal business. The only drawback is that you will have to remain very still while scanning.

IS ANY PREPARATION NECESSARY?

Any preparation will be indicated at the time of the appointment. You should report any medication you are taking in case it needs to be discontinued.

IS ANYTHING SPECIAL REQUIRED AFTER THE SCAN?

It may be appropriate to drink water (1-2 litres) whenever this is not contraindicated, which will help eliminate the injected agent. Frequent urination is required to eliminate it.

WHAT ARE THE ADVERSE EFFECTS OF THIS SCAN?

The irradiation received in a Nuclear Medicine examination is very small and similar to (or even lower than) that received in most radiological examinations.

The characteristics of the products used mean adverse and side effects are extremely infrequent.

CAN I COME WITH SOMEONE ELSE?

YES, but it is advisable not to come with small children or pregnant women.

WHAT PRECAUTIONS SHOULD BE TAKEN WITH CHILDREN?

After a Nuclear Medicine scan, it is advisable not to have small children in close proximity (in your arms or on your lap) for the period of time indicated for each test (usually at least 24 hours).

WHAT IF I AM PREGNANT?

No examinations should be carried out with radiation. Please tell us if you are or think you may be pregnant. It is important to let us know before any injection is given.

CAN I BREASTFEED?

If you are breastfeeding, please tell us before any injection. There are substances that are eliminated through breast milk, and may be harmful to the infant. Depending on the type of test being conducted, breastfeeding may need to be discontinued from 24 hours prior to the test until a specified period thereafter.