Gamma Camera
- It is a camera that can detect flashes of light produced when gamma rays, resulting from radioactive decay of single photon emitting radioisotopes, interact with a sodium iodide crystal at the front of the camera.
- The procedure takes from 1 – 3 hours.
The preparations required for the procedures:
- All women in the child-bearing age groups must inform their physician if they are pregnant or planning to be pregnant within the following months.
- The physician should be informed with any medications the patient takes or any supplements or any type of sensitivity from any substance or any chronic conditions.
- All metal accessories and jewelries must be removed before undergoing the procedure.
- Caffeine-containing drinks and smoking should be stopped at least 48 hours before undergoing the procedure.
Some cases require certain precautions and preparations according to the organ that would be examined.
Liver
- The patient should stop all forms of eating and drinking at least 4 hours before undergoing the procedure.
- Any procedures using Barium should not be done for at least 48 hours before undergoing the procedure.
Kidneys
- You should drink extra amounts of water and you may be given intravenous fluids before the procedure.
- In some cases where the urinary bladder is needed to be empty before imaging, a diuretic may be given.
- You should inform your physician if you take any non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
- Some medications should be stopped before undergoing the procedure.
