Nuclear Medicine

The Nuclear Medicine Department of Florida Medical Clinic provides a wide scope of procedures helpful in detecting, evaluating, and diagnosing a variety of diseases and obstructions of the organs. Our department has been approved by the ICANL which recognizes high quality nuclear cardiology and nuclear medicine laboratories.

These tests involve injections of radioisotopes into the veins, which are then localized in different areas of the body. Each test provides an intensely precise picture of the area resulting in a significantly greater opportunity for your physician to accurately diagnose your symptoms. Tests are safe, simple, painless, and there are virtually no side effects.

Some of the Nuclear Medicine Tests available at Florida Medical Clinic include:

Cardiac Nuclear Stress Exam – A two to three hour exam, which shows detailed pictures of the heart under stress and at rest. The test allows your physician to locate blocked or narrowed arteries to the heart.

Gated Blood Pool Study (MUGA) – Evaluates the wall motion and strength of your heart. Examination time is one hour.

Bone Scan – Detects and evaluates trauma, arthritis, and cancer of the bones. Requires a 15-minute injection, then two hours later, a 30 minute image acquisition.

Liver/Spleen Study – Provides an accurate assessment of liver disease and detection of liver/spleen lesions. The examination time is approximately 45 minutes.

Hepatobiliary Study (HIDA) – Evaluates the canals of the gallbladder and detects blockage. Examination time is approximately one to four hours.

RBC Liver Scan – Locates liver masses. Images are taken immediately, then 1-1/2 hours later, return for 45 minutes of imaging.

Gastric Emptying Study – Several conditions can result in delayed gastric emptying which can lead to various gastrointestinal symptoms including nausea, vomiting, heartburn and even abdominal pain. This study evaluates stomach function measuring how well it empties, and takes approximately 1 1/2 hours.