Information for Patients

Having a Nuclear Medicine Procedure

For general information about Nuclear Medicine tests and procedures, please read our Nuclear Medicine Test information booklet.

For information about the risks and benefits that come from using radiation, you can refer to our Your Nuclear Medicine Test and You information leaflet.

If a relative or friend is accompanying you to provide support during your appointment they should read the ‘Advice for Carers and Comforters’ leaflet. A copy of this leaflet will also be given to them on the day of your appointment.

Having a Lung Scan during pregnancy

For patient information read our Having a Lung Scan During Pregnancy leaflet, members of staff in the Nuclear Medicine department will also be able to answer any questions you have regarding your scan.

Breastfeeding following a Lung Scan

This test uses a small amount of radiation to obtain images which will help your doctor understand your condition. This will cause a small amount of radioactivity to be present in your breast milk.  Your baby should not ingest any of this radioactivity and the following advice will prevent this happening.

Before your test

• If it is possible “bank” at least one feed in advance by expressing milk and storing in a refrigerator.
• You can feed your baby as normal before the test.

The nuclear medicine department will issue you with advice and a form detailing when you can restart breastfeeding.

Radioactive Iodine treatment for benign thyroid disease

For patient information read our Information on Your Radioactive Iodine leaflet, members of staff in the Nuclear Medicine department will also be able to answer any questions you have regarding your treatment.