A nuclear medicine exam uses very small amounts of radioactive material to help doctors diagnose diseases or medical conditions. These tests show the level of organ function and can show abnormalities in an organ’s structure or function.
- Depending on the type of nuclear medicine test, a radiotracer is injected into a vein, swallowed or inhaled.
- Some MRIs may require an injection of dye into a vein to give the radiologist more information about vascular structures in the body. If an IV dye is necessary for your exam, drink extra fluids for 48 hours following your exam to help flush the dye out of your body.
- Some procedures have delays allowing the radioactive tracer to take effect. These delays can be 2 to 4 hours or possibly several days depending upon the procedure.
- Some of these tests may take one hour or more.
Preparing for a nuclear medicine test
If you are scheduled for nuclear medicine imaging, your provider will give you instruction on how to prepare. Please leave all jewelry at home.
Scheduling your nuclear medicine test
Appointment hours are listed below but could change due to holidays or other circumstances. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the BJC centralized outpatient scheduling department at 636.916.9320. A physician order is required for a diagnostic mammogram only.
- Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Imaging Location
Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital
Entry D
10 Hospital Drive
St. Peters, Missouri 63376