Willamette Valley Medical Center offers the latest technological advances in diagnosis and treatment. Part of our commitment includes offering on-site nuclear medicine scans.
Using radioactive chemical compounds in selected parts of the body, this technology offers unique views of key organs and systems.
Using this technology as a tool, the hospital's board certified radiologists work together with your physician to provide accurate and quick diagnosis. We know the faster and more accurate your diagnosis, the sooner you can begin treatments and be back on your way to good health.
Nuclear Medicine FAQs
Please browse our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not answered here, call your healthcare provider or 503.435.6380.
Q:What is nuclear medicine and why is it used?
A:Nuclear medicine scans provide information about various organ functions by imaging the concentration of specially formulated radioactive chemical compounds in selected parts of the body. These compounds, or radioisotopes, are administered to patients by trained technologists in small amounts in order to evaluate for functional abnormalities in bone, liver, lungs, heart, brain, kidneys and the endocrine system.
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Q:What types of scans are considered "nuclear medicine?"
A: Nuclear medicine exams include:
- Ventilation and perfusion (V/Q) scans show blood flow and air movement in the lungs.
- Stress perfusion scans for assess coronary artery blood flow and cardiac muscle damage.
- Bone scans detect the spread of cancer.
- Liver, spleen, gallbladder and kidney scans evaluate organ function.
- Thyroid scans visualize activity of the thyroid gland.
- Scans of the gastrointestinal system identify active bleeding sites.
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Q:How is a scan performed?
A: For a nuclear medicine exam, the patient is given a small amount of radioisotope, either orally or by injection, to enhance the visualization of selected organs or vascular structures. Once the radioisotope has accumulated in the region of the body under study, the technologist positions a camera close to the region and begins the scanning process.
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Q:Is it safe?
A: As with any radiological procedure, pregnant women should consult with their physician before undergoing a nuclear medicine exam. Generally, nuclear medicine scans are not performed on pregnant women. Nursing mothers as well as patients taking medication are also advised to inform their physician.
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Q:What if I have to reschedule my appointment?
A: Call 503.435.6380, Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 am and 5:00 pm.
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Q:Where do I go for my appointment?
A: Check in at the radiology desk on the main floor of the hospital. For directions to the hospital, click here.
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Q:How will I get the results of my scan?
A: A board certified radiologist will carefully review your scan and communicate the results with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
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