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ENT, Otolaryngology

Why choose Geisinger for nuclear medicine imaging?

No matter what your scan is looking for, you deserve clear answers — and a team that puts you at ease while getting them. 

Once your primary care provider (PCP) or specialist refers you, your scan is read in-house by radiology specialists to give you accurate answers and clear next steps. Because your nuclear medicine imaging is connected to the rest of your care through your health record, your whole team works from the same picture. And most of our patients choose to stay with Geisinger for the care that follows. 

We also use nuclear medicine for a type of therapy that can treat thyroid cancer, prostate cancer and neuroendocrine cancer. Because these radiotracers target malignant cells, radiation to healthy tissue is kept to a minimum.

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FAQs

What’s nuclear medicine imaging?

Nuclear medicine imaging uses very small amounts of a short-lived, low-energy radioactive material — a radiotracer — to show how your organs and tissues are working. Special cameras detect the tracer and create images your doctor can review, often revealing problems earlier than other scans can.

Is nuclear medicine imaging safe? How much radiation is involved?

Yes. The radiotracers used are short-lived, low-energy and given in very small doses, so your exposure to radiation is relatively low. Nuclear medicine imaging is also noninvasive and painless, aside from possible discomfort if the tracer is given by injection. Your care team is glad to answer any questions before your scan.

How is the radiotracer given, and what happens afterward?

Depending on the type of scan, you may swallow the radiotracer, inhale it as a gas or have it injected into a vein. It can take anywhere from a few seconds to several days for the tracer to gather in the area being studied, so imaging may happen right away or be scheduled for a later time.

Do I need a referral for nuclear medicine imaging?

Yes. You'll need an order or referral from your provider before scheduling. Ask your PCP or specialist whether nuclear medicine imaging is right for you.

Nuclear medicine imaging at Geisinger

Here, your radiology specialists bring years of expertise in nuclear medicine, using the latest technology to give you and your care team clear results. We also offer:

  • Accredited imaging services: Our imaging facilities and procedures are accredited through the American College of Radiology, reflecting nationally recognized standards for quality and safety.
  • In-house interpretation: A radiologist reviews your scans and shares results directly with your care team so your doctors have what they need to move forward — no matter where they are.
  • Diagnosis and treatment in one place: Beyond imaging, radiologists offer nuclear medicine therapies that treat thyroid cancer, prostate cancer and neuroendocrine cancer — often in the same location as your scans.
  • Low-dose, patient-friendly exams: Short-lived, low-energy radiotracers keep your radiation exposure low, and most scans are noninvasive.