Treating Conditions
Nuclear medicine is also used to treat certain conditions, most commonly thyroid disorders and some forms of cancer. As with diagnostic studies, treatment involves introducing small amounts of radioactive material into a specific organ or structure. For cancer treatment, the material is carefully positioned near the tumor, emitting a controlled dose of radiation that destroys nearby cancer cells while preserving surrounding tissue.
Preparing for Your Visit
Some nuclear medicine procedures require special preparation and are performed on an outpatient basis, typically taking only a few hours to complete. You’ll be given specific instructions when your exam is scheduled.
