Nuclear medicine uses very small amounts of radioactive materials (radiopharmaceuticals) to diagnose and treat disease, including many types of cancers, heart disease and other abnormalities within the body. Radiopharmaceuticals are attracted to specific organs, bones or tissues and then emit gamma rays that are detected externally by special types of cameras. These cameras work with computers to form images that provide data and information about the area of the body being studied. The amount of radiation from a nuclear medicine procedure is comparable to that received during a diagnostic x-ray.

Nuclear medicine imaging documents organ function and structure in contrast to diagnostic radiology, which is based upon anatomy.

Our radiology department’s state-of-the-art nuclear medicine camera allows us to diagnose diseases in the earliest stages and treat them accordingly. This includes many types of cancers, heart disease, gastrointestinal issues and other abnormalities. We can get an optimum image of the organ or area we’re evaluating.

Additionally, the high-end camera provides a much higher quality picture and can decrease exam times by more than 50 percent. More importantly, patients have greater comfort and peace of mind knowing that their images are top quality.

For more information, call 573-468-4186, 866-468-4186 or schedule an appointment online.