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Date: 22 May 2012
Time: 17:45
General information on nuclear medicine
What is a nuclear medicine scan?
A small injection of slightly radioactive dye is used to obtain pictures of the areas your doctor is interested in. You may have pictures taken immediately, or after a delay, depending on the type of scan you are having. For the scan you will be asked to lie on a bed or sit in a chair. You do not have to undress but we will ask you to remove any metal objects such as jewellery. After any required delay, most scans take about 30 minutes, but again this depends on the type of scan.
Are there any side effects?
Nuclear medicine procedures are among the safest diagnostic imaging tests available. The amount of radiation involved is comparable to that received during an X-ray. The procedures are painless and do not require anaesthetic. Side effects from the injection are extremely rare and usually mild.
Do I need to prepare for the scan?
Please refer to your appointment letter, which will explain any specific preparation you need. You need to tell us if you are pregnant or breast feeding.
Will it hurt?
For most tests there is just the pinprick of a needle, which is similar to having a blood test. The injection will not make you sleepy and it does not prevent you from driving.
What happens to the results?
The results of the scan will be sent to the doctor who referred you for the scan.
If you need any more information, please contact the department on:
Telephone: 0121 371 2282
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