What is Nuclear Medicine?

Nuclear medicine is a specialized field of medicine that uses small amounts of radioactive material to diagnose and treat cancer. The radioactive material is taken up by the cells in the body and can be used to create images of the organ or tissue being studied. This allows doctors to identify any abnormal cells or growths and make a diagnosis.

How Nuclear Medicine is used for Cancer Diagnosis?

Nuclear medicine imaging tests are non-invasive and painless procedures that are used to create images of the inside of the body. These images can help identify any abnormal cells or growths and make a diagnosis. Some common nuclear medicine tests for cancer diagnosis include:

  • Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans
  • Gallium scans
  • Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) scans

Benefits of Nuclear
Medicine for Cancer

A Positive note for preparation

Accurate Diagnosis: Nuclear medicine provides highly accurate and detailed images of the inside of the body, allowing for early and accurate diagnosis of cancer.

Targeted Treatment: Nuclear medicine can be used to target and destroy cancer cells, reducing the risk of damage to healthy cells.

Non-invasive: Nuclear medicine is a non-invasive and painless procedure, with minimal side effects.

What to Expect During
a Nuclear Medicine Consultation

A Positive note for preparation

Accurate Diagnosis: Nuclear medicine provides highly accurate and detailed images of the inside of the body, allowing for early and accurate diagnosis of cancer.

Targeted Treatment: Nuclear medicine can be used to target and destroy cancer cells, reducing the risk of damage to healthy cells.

Non-invasive: Nuclear medicine is a non-invasive and painless procedure, with minimal side effects.

A Positive note for preparation


A Positive note for preparation

Nuclear medicine is the most accurate, non-invasive, and safe diagnostic and treatment option. Our team of experienced professionals use specialized radiopharmaceuticals to target specific areas of the body, minimizing side effects. Our procedures are cost-effective and can help diagnose and treat various conditions. Trust us to provide personalized care for your unique medical needs. Choose nuclear medicine for better health outcomes.

Emotional and
Mental Needs


A Positive note for preparation

At our dedicated cancer care center, we understand that cancer not only affects the body but also the mind and emotions of the patient. That's why we prioritize holistic care and provide resources to support our patients' emotional and psychological wellbeing during their cancer journey. In addition to medical treatment, we offer

  • our cancer support group, Swasam, and
  • various stress-reducing techniques like mindfulness, meditation, and complementary therapies that promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

Adverse Effects


Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

Skin irritation

The area of the body being treated with radiation therapy may become red, dry, and itchy. The skin may also become more sensitive to the sun.

fact icon

Fact Check


85%

Nuclear medicine has an average accuracy rate of 85% in diagnosing cancer, compared to 70% for traditional imaging methods.

What Can I do to help myself


Asking questions: Don’t be afraid to ask your doctor or healthcare provider questions about your condition, treatment options, and what to expect during your care.

Researching: Take advantage of reliable sources of information, such as reputable medical websites, books, and articles, to learn more about your condition and treatment options.

Build a support network of loved ones and consider joining a support group.

Practice self-care by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking professional support if needed.

After Treatment | After Care


After undergoing a nuclear therapy or a theranostic  procedure, patients may be advised to take some precautions and follow certain guidelines for aftercare, such as:

  • Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, can help flush out any remaining radioactive material from the body.
  • Avoiding close contact with others: Depending on the type of procedure, patients may be advised to avoid close contact with others for a certain period of time.
  • Follow-up appointments: Patients may need to attend follow-up appointments to monitor their progress and ensure that they are responding well to treatment.
  • Medication management: Patients may need to take medication to manage any side effects of the procedure or underlying conditions.
  • Rest and recovery: Depending on the procedure, patients may need to rest and avoid strenuous activities for a certain period of time.
  • Post-procedure instructions: Patients will be given specific instructions on what to do after the procedure, including any special dietary restrictions or activity limitations.

It’s essential to follow these aftercare instructions carefully to ensure the best possible outcome and minimize any potential risks or complications. If you have any questions or concerns about your aftercare plan, be sure to discuss them with your healthcare provider.

Get a Screening/Second Opinion from us


Early detection can significantly improve your chances of successful treatment. It’s also a good idea to get a second opinion from our Nuclear Medicine Specialist to ensure that you are getting the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan possible. Take charge of your health and get the care you need today.

FAQ

Nuclear Medicine procedure and care plan


Nuclear medicine is typically administered through injection, oral administration, or inhalation. The radioactive material is taken up by the body’s cells and can be seen on imaging scans.

Recovery time after nuclear medicine is typically minimal, as the procedure is non-invasive.

Yes, nuclear medicine procedures are often done as an outpatient procedure.

The success of nuclear medicine will be determined by the results of the imaging scans and the patient’s response to treatment.

Additional treatments may be needed after nuclear medicine, depending on the condition being treated.

Medications may be needed after nuclear medicine, depending on the condition being treated.

The risks and side effects of nuclear medicine are generally minimal. The small amount of radioactive material used is considered safe, and the radiation exposure is low.

No data Found

Contact Us


[contact-form-7 id="60" title="Contact"]

Appointments

+91 44 4251 5151

Emergency

+91 44 4200 4200

Visit the hospital

MGM Cancer Institute

No 119 & 121, Nelson Manickam Road, Raajeswari Street, Rajaram Mehta Nagar,

Aminjikarai, Chennai – 600029

Appointments / Find a doctor
Second Opinion

Appointments / Find a doctor

Second Opinion