The department of nuclear medicine and molecular imaging at Aster Hospital uses safe, painless and cost-effective techniques to image the functions of various organs and treat diseases. The department offers a wide range of imaging and therapeutic procedures under nuclear medicine and molecular imaging for various specialities. This branch of diagnostics uses small amount of radioactive material or tracer to diagnose the problems with the structure or functions of internal organs like lungs, heart, and liver and so on. The department with state-of-the-art infrastructure and skilled professionals allow quick and accurate diagnosis of various medical as well as surgical conditions. All the latest and advanced technologies are made available at the department to ensure specialised, individualised care to the patients.
Our Doctors
We have some of the best specialists from around the world, they bring years of experience and offer evidence-based treatment to ensure the best care for you.
Advanced Technology & Facilities
Well equipped with the latest medical equipment, modern technology & infrastructure, Aster Hospital is one of the best hospitals in India.
Equipped with revolutionary Time Of Flight (TOF) technology which increases PET performance, the Philips Astonish True flight select PET CT system operates fully in 3D mode and is exceptionally sensitive for faster scans, which means better lesion detectability, precise anatomical details and minimal PET radiation dose as the FDG dose injected is considerably less.
The GE SPECT-CT OPTIMA NM 640 gamma camera can provide exceptionally clear images at a very high speed, facilitating high-precision diagnosis. Low on radiation dose and examination time, it also allows hybrid by integrating the most advanced general purpose camera with a newly developed four-slice CT.
- Siemens Biograph Horizon time of flight PET CT
- GE SPECT CT Optima NM 640
- High Dose Radioactive iodine therapy ward
- Targeted therapy for liver tumours (TARE)
- Targeted Radionuclide Therapy (Lutetium, Actinium) for prostate and neuroendocrine tumours.
- Radiation Synovectomy
- Bone Pain Palliation
Digital PET with 80 slice CT (United Imaging, UMI 550 Digital PET/CT scanner)
First in Bangalore: Pioneer in introducing advanced imaging technology.
Ultra-fast, high-resolution: Swift and detailed imaging for accurate diagnosis.
Complete Organ Coverage: 24 cm axial FOV provides full organ coverage, enabling dynamic studies.
Quick Whole-Body Scans: Acquires whole-body scans in just 4 positions, completing scans in under 10 minutes.
Reduced Radiation Dose: Cuts patient radiotracer dose by 50% for enhanced safety.
Small Lesion Detection: The industry's smallest crystal (2.7 mm) allows precise detection of small lesions.
Ultra-High Resolution: Achieves 2.9 mm NEMA and 1.4 mm Clinical Resolution for detailed imaging.
Advanced Technologies: Incorporates advanced features like TOF, PSF, HYPER Iterative, and HYPER DPR for improved image quality.
Best Image Clarity: Higher Matrix (600x600) ensures optimal image clarity.
High Temporal Resolution: Rapid 0.5-sec rotation speed enhances temporal resolution for detailed imaging.
1.a) PET CT Scan
A positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) scan, is a sophisticated medical imaging technique that combines two powerful technologies to provide comprehensive information about the structure and function of the body.
When is it used?
PET/CT scans are widely used in oncology to
Detect and stage various types of cancer
Identify early disease even before the onset of symptoms
Precisely locate and characterize lesions
Assess the extent of disease spread
Help physicians plan appropriate treatment strategies
Guide biopsy and surgery
Monitor treatment response
Reduce unnecessary procedures
PET/CT scan can also be used to diagnose
Heart conditions such as coronary heart disease
Neurological Disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and brain tumours
Infectious and inflammatory diseases
Endocrine disorders
Bone disorders
How it works?
We inject a tiny amount of radiotracer called fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG-18) into your body. This radioactive material emits signals depending on how much sugar your tissues are absorbing.
A PET scanner then detects these signals, measuring the activity of your cells. This helps us spot areas with increased or unusual activity, like where tumours may be developing.
At the same time, a CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed pictures of your body's structure, showing the size and location of organs and any potential issues. PET/CT scans typically have a lower radiation dose compared to conventional CT scans.
The PET/CT scan merges these details, giving us a complete picture of both metabolic activity and anatomical structures. This helps us understand your health more accurately.
1.b) PSMA PET Scan
Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen PET (PSMA PET) scan, is an advanced medical imaging technique used in prostate cancer diagnosis and management. It is particularly valuable for detecting and staging prostate cancer, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring the response to therapy with high precision.
How does it benefit prostate cancer management?
A PSMA PET scan enables timely action, making it an essential tool in the prostate cancer treatment process.
Detects prostate cancer at an earlier stage when it is most curable and treatable.
Pinpoints the exact location and extent of prostate cancer.
Provides detailed information for accurately staging the cancer.
Helps in personalizing treatment strategies based on the specific characteristics of the cancer.
Enables real-time monitoring of how well the cancer is responding to treatment.
Reduce the need for invasive procedures by providing comprehensive information through non-invasive imaging.
Contributes to better treatment outcomes through precise and targeted management.
Assists in more effective follow-up care by identifying any potential recurrence or spread of the cancer.
How it works?
A PSMA PET scan works by using a special radioactive substance that has a preference for prostate-specific membrane antigens (PSMA), found in higher amounts on prostate cancer cells.
You will receive an injection of a radioactive substance.
The injected radiotracer circulates in your body and is naturally absorbed by prostate cancer cells if they are present.
A PET scanner then captures images that highlight areas where the substance has accumulated, helping to pinpoint the location and extent of prostate cancer cells in your body.
Advanced Gantry Design: Slim-profile, wide-bore, robotic gantry for comfortable scans. Detectors in 180° and 90° orientations for efficient SPECT and whole-body scanning. Rapid multi-axis gantry motions for quick scans.
Superior Image Quality: Achieved through advanced Elite NXT detector technology and SPECT-optimized design.
Low Dose Imaging: Capable of imaging at half the patient dose without compromising image quality.
Automated Motion: The detector moves in/out and rotates around the ring automatically, adapting to different scanning positions.
Flexible Design: Accommodates various patient positions, including upright seated or standing, as well as imaging patients on stretchers.
Efficient Scanning: Real-time Automatic Body Contouring (ABC) enhances efficiency and resolution in different scanning procedures while maximizing image quality by minimizing patient-detector distance.
FAQs
Want to find out more about the treatment? The answer to your questions can be found below.
How should I prepare myself for a PET/CT scan?
- Follow fasting instructions as advised by your doctor.
- 2Drink plenty of water the day before the scan.
- Inform your doctor about your existing medical conditions and follow any medicine adjustments recommended.
- Wear comfortable, metal-free attire; you may need to change into a gown.
- Refrain from vigorous exercise a day or two before the scan.
- Inform your doctor if pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Arrive on time on the day of the scan. The scan may take 30-60 minutes, with additional time for preparation.
Are there any side effects or risks associated with a PET/CT scan?
PET/CT scans are considered safe. The radiation exposure is minimal, and any potential side effects are usually mild and temporary. Some patients may experience slight discomfort from the injection site or mild allergic reactions. It is important to inform your doctor of any allergies or existing medical conditions before the scan.
How long does a PSMA PET scan take?
A PSMA PET scan usually takes around 1 to 2 hours. This includes the time for the injection and the actual imaging process.
Is a PSMA PET scan safe?
Yes, a PSMA PET scan is considered safe. The radioactive substance used in the scan has a low level of radiation, and the benefits of accurate cancer detection typically outweigh the minimal risks.
How do doctors use radioactive drugs and imaging tools to identify diseases?
Radioactive drugs and imaging devices are commonly used in a medical technique called nuclear medicine to diagnose diseases. Radiotracers are special drugs containing a small amount of radioactive material. They are designed to emit gamma rays, which can be detected by imaging devices. Radiotracers can be administered in various ways, such as injection, ingestion, or inhalation, depending on the specific diagnostic procedure and the area of the body being examined. Once administered, the radiotracer circulates through the body and accumulates in the target organ or tissue. Imaging devices, such as gamma cameras or positron emission tomography (PET) scanners, are used to capture the gamma rays emitted by the radiotracer. As the radiotracer emits gamma rays, the imaging device creates detailed pictures or scans of the internal structures and functions of the body. Differences in the distribution or concentration of the radiotracer can indicate abnormalities, such as tumours, inflammation, or other diseases, helping in the diagnosis and staging of conditions.
Is a SPECT/Gamma Camera Scan safe, and does it involve radiation exposure?
While a SPECT/Gamma Camera Scan involves the use of a radioactive tracer, the amount of radiation exposure is typically considered safe for diagnostic purposes. The radioactive material used has a short half-life, meaning it loses its radioactivity quickly.
Who is a nuclear medicine specialist, and what do they do?
A doctor skilled in diagnosing and treating a wide range of medical diseases using radioactive materials is known as a nuclear medicine expert. They use methods like radioactive iodine treatment and positron emission tomography (PET) scans to treat disorders, especially those that impact the thyroid, heart, and malignant growths.
What question should you ask a nuclear medicine specialist?
When speaking with a nuclear medicine professional, it is vital to ask questions regarding the precise radiopharmaceuticals or isotopes that will be used, the procedure's possible dangers and advantages, and how the results may affect your treatment plan. Understanding the therapeutic or diagnostic objectives is essential to making well-informed decisions regarding your treatment.
What are the most common types of conditions that nuclear medicine specialists treat?
Nuclear medicine specialists at Aster Medicity treat a wide range of diseases, including malignancies such as lymphoma and bone metastases, neuroendocrine tumours, and thyroid problems such as hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer. They may also assist in the treatment of certain liver and renal disorders and diagnose and treat cardiac issues.
What is the role of a nuclear medicine specialist in a patient's treatment?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Kochi at Aster Medicity have various patient care responsibilities. They administer radiopharmaceuticals, analyse test findings or pictures, and select appropriate nuclear medicine procedures. As multidisciplinary team members, they collaborate to offer individualised treatment programmes that might involve therapeutic and diagnostic approaches.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a nuclear medicine specialist?
Get your medical documents together, together with the results of any prior imaging investigations and tests, in order to be ready for your initial appointment with a nuclear medicine specialist. Prepare a list of all the drugs you are taking, your medical history, and your present symptoms. Depending on the kind of treatment you'll be having, your doctor could give you certain instructions, like how long you need to fast or whether you need to stop taking a certain medicine temporarily.
When should I consider seeing a nuclear medicine specialist?
If you need diagnostic imaging or therapy for a chronic or life-threatening ailment, consider visiting a nuclear medicine specialist in Bangalore at Aster CMI. This might apply to ailments like cancer, heart illness, or neurological problems.
Will a nuclear medicine specialist help manage side effects during treatment?
Indeed, throughout treatment, a nuclear medicine specialist in Bangalore at Aster CMI can assist in managing adverse effects. They can monitor patients for negative responses and modify treatment regimens as necessary. This involves managing discomfort, exhaustion, and nausea.
What digestive system conditions do nuclear medicine specialists attend to?
Nuclear medicine specialists at Aster CMI treat digestive system diseases, including liver problems, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastrointestinal malignancies. They diagnose and monitor these disorders using imaging methods like PET and SPECT.
What advancements or technologies are utilised by nuclear medicine specialists?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Bangalore at Aster CMI employ cutting-edge tools such as hybrid imaging, which combines these modalities with computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), as well as PET and SPECT imaging. Additionally, they analyse and interpret imaging data using computerised tools.
Who is a nuclear medicine specialist, and what do they do?
A nuclear medicine specialist, sometimes referred to as a nuclear medicine physician, is a healthcare provider who diagnoses and treats a range of medical diseases using radioactive materials and advanced imaging methods. They are skilled in using sophisticated imaging modalities like positron emission tomography (PET) and single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) to visualise and evaluate the anatomy and function of the body. These substances are known as radiopharmaceuticals.
What question should you ask a nuclear medicine specialist?
Do not be afraid to ask questions about your health, the nuclear medicine treatments you will undergo, and any possible side effects during your session. Ask about the projected radiation exposure, the timeframe for expected outcomes, and the accuracy and limits of the testing.
What are the most common types of conditions that nuclear medicine specialists treat?
Nuclear medicine specialists at Aster MIMS frequently identify and manage a wide range of illnesses that impact distinct organs and systems, such as thyroid issues, lung, prostate, and bone cancers, heart disease, neurological diseases like epilepsy and Parkinson's disease, and digestive system issues.
What is the role of a nuclear medicine specialist in a patient's treatment?
Nuclear medicine specialists at Aster MIMS work with other medical specialists to offer complete patient treatment. They offer diagnostic reports and evaluate imaging data to help choose the best course of action. In addition, they could give therapeutic radiopharmaceuticals to treat diseases like thyroid cancer or specific kinds of lymphomas.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a nuclear medicine specialist?
Compiling pertinent medical data, such as previous imaging studies and lab results, is helpful before your initial session. Prepare a detailed medical history and inform the doctor about any allergies or drugs you use. Make a note of any particular worries or inquiries you would like to address during your meeting.
When should I consider seeing a nuclear medicine specialist?
When noninvasive imaging is needed to diagnose or treat complicated diseases, especially malignancies, cardiovascular conditions, and neurological problems, consider consulting a nuclear medicine specialist in Whitefield at Aster Bangalore. By utilising methods like scintigraphy and radioimmunotherapy, they provide individualised treatment regimens and precise diagnostics, allowing for a better understanding of disease processes.
Will a nuclear medicine specialist help manage side effects during treatment?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Whitefield at Aster Bangalore can carefully choose the right radiopharmaceuticals and doses to help manage adverse effects throughout therapy. They actively monitor patients for bad responses, offering supportive care and modifying treatment plans to lessen side effects like exhaustion, nausea, and problems from radiation exposure.
What digestive system conditions do nuclear medicine specialists attend to?
Nuclear medicine specialist at Aster Bangalore treats liver ailments, motility problems, and gastrointestinal haemorrhage as digestive system issues. They analyse the shape and function of the digestive system using methods like gastrointestinal scintigraphy, which helps diagnose and treat Crohn's disease, gastroparesis, and hepatic hemangiomas.
What advancements or technologies are utilised by nuclear medicine specialists?
Nuclear medicine has advanced thanks to hybrid imaging methods such as PET/CT and SPECT/CT, which integrate anatomical and functional imaging for improved accuracy. Treatments customised to each patient's unique profile are more successful because of advancements in theranostics, personalised medicine, and the use of radiopharmaceuticals for both therapy and diagnostics.
Is a PET/CT scan painful?
No, a PET/CT scan is generally not painful. You may experience mild discomfort during the injection of the radiotracer, which is similar to a routine blood test. The imaging process itself is painless, allowing you to lie comfortably while the scan is conducted.
Can PET/CT confirm cancer diagnosis?
A PET/CT scan is a powerful tool in the diagnosis and staging of cancer, but it cannot definitively confirm a cancer diagnosis on its own. It provides valuable information about the metabolic activity of tissues, helping identify areas with an increased or abnormal activity that may be indicative of cancer. However, a conclusive diagnosis often requires additional steps such as biopsy or further imaging studies.
How do I prepare for a PSMA PET scan?
Preparation usually involves fasting for a few hours before the scan, and your doctor will provide specific instructions. It is essential to inform your doctor about any medications or allergies.
Are there any contraindications to radioactive iodine therapy?
Yes, there are certain contraindications or situations where radioactive iodine therapy may not be recommended. Some common contraindications include:
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
- Severe thyroid eye disease
- Uncontrolled hyperthyroidism
- Vomiting and diarrhoea
Are there any specific preparations I need to undertake before a SPECT/Gamma Camera Scan?
Your doctor will provide specific instructions based on the type of scan you are undergoing. Generally, you may be asked to avoid certain foods or medications before the scan. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about any allergies, medical conditions, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
How long does it take to get results from a nuclear medicine scan?
The time for results can vary depending on the specific scan. In some cases, initial results may be available shortly after the scan, while more detailed analysis may take a bit longer. Your doctor will discuss the timeline for receiving and discussing the results with you.
When should I consider seeing a nuclear medicine specialist?
When you need focused therapy or specialised diagnostic imaging for ailments including thyroid disorders, heart diseases, or specific cancer forms, you should consider visiting a nuclear medicine specialist in Kochi at Aster Medicity. Their knowledge can help with treatment planning by offering in-depth details regarding the operation of certain organs or the severity of a disease.
Will a nuclear medicine specialist help manage side effects during treatment?
Sure, a nuclear medicine specialist in Kochi at Aster Medicity is a valuable asset in managing treatment-related adverse effects. In order to maximise patient outcomes and quality of life, they collaborate closely with oncologists and other healthcare professionals to guarantee that patients receive complete treatment that tackles the illness as well as any side effects of medication.
What digestive system conditions do nuclear medicine specialists attend to?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Kochi at Aster Medicity treat a variety of digestive system problems, such as gastrointestinal bleeding and hepatobiliary disorders, including gallbladder disease and liver function testing. They employ imaging methods such as hepatobiliary iminodiacetic acid (HIDA) scans to assess the composition and operation of the gallbladder and bile ducts.
What advancements or technologies are utilised by nuclear medicine specialists?
The development of hybrid imaging methods, such as PET-CT and SPECT-CT, which integrate anatomical and functional imaging for more accurate diagnosis, is one example of how nuclear medicine has advanced. Recent developments in radiopharmaceuticals and molecular imaging tools have made personalised medicine and targeted therapy possible in the area.
Who is a nuclear medicine specialist, and what do they do?
A physician specialising in nuclear medicine employs radioactive materials and methods to identify and treat various illnesses. They run imaging machines, administer radiopharmaceuticals, and analyse data to make diagnoses. They also control radiation exposure and monitor patient safety.
What question should you ask a nuclear medicine specialist?
Inquire about the specific imaging methods a nuclear medicine expert uses, such as single photon emission tomography (SPECT) or positron emission tomography (PET). Ask about the procedures' possible advantages and disadvantages and any essential safety measures.
What are the most common types of conditions that nuclear medicine specialists treat?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Bangalore at Aster CMI frequently handle illnesses, including cancer, heart disease, neurological diseases, and digestive issues. They may also treat some illnesses using radioactive chemicals in addition to using imaging techniques for diagnosis and monitoring.
What is the role of a nuclear medicine specialist in a patient's treatment?
Nuclear medicine specialist in Bangalore at Aster CMI's job is to diagnose and treat patients using radioactive materials and imaging techniques. They collaborate closely with other healthcare providers to create treatment programmes and track patients' advancement.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a nuclear medicine specialist?
Get any pertinent medical documents together, ask questions about the procedures and hazards, and be ready to talk about your symptoms and medical history when you see a nuclear medicine expert for the first time.
When should I consider seeing a nuclear medicine specialist?
If you have been advised to undergo nuclear medicine procedures or if you have been experiencing symptoms that could be associated with conditions that nuclear medicine can diagnose or treat, such as heart disease, thyroid disorders, cancer, or specific neurological conditions, you should think about consulting with a nuclear medicine specialist in Calicut at Aster MIMS.
Will a nuclear medicine specialist help manage side effects during treatment?
Nuclear Medicine Specialist in Calicut at Aster MIMS may offer advice on handling any side effects arising from your therapy, even if their primary concentration is detecting and treating medical disorders. Please don't hesitate to ask your expert for help if you feel uncomfortable or have any negative side effects during or after treatment.
What digestive system conditions do nuclear medicine specialists attend to?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Calicut at Aster MIMS diagnose and evaluate digestive system disorders, including malabsorption syndromes, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). To help with diagnosis and therapy planning, they use nuclear medicine methods to evaluate the morphology and function of organs such as the stomach, intestines, and oesophagus.
What advancements or technologies are utilised by nuclear medicine specialists?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Calicut at Aster MIMS use cutting-edge tools and methods to improve the precision and accuracy of diagnosis and care. Nuclear medicine and computed tomography (CT) are combined in hybrid imaging modalities like SPECT-CT and PET-CT to offer comprehensive anatomical and functional data. More sensitive and specialised radiopharmaceuticals are always being developed, enabling more individualised and efficient treatment plans.
Who is a nuclear medicine specialist, and what do they do?
A doctor skilled in using radioactive materials for illness diagnosis and treatment is known as a nuclear medicine expert. Radiopharmaceuticals are needed to perform imaging tests like PET, SPECT, and gamma camera scans, which are crucial for identifying diseases like cancer and heart disease. These investigations allow for the thorough visualisation of organ function and cellular activity.
What question should you ask a nuclear medicine specialist?
Ask questions regarding the specific radiopharmaceuticals used, possible risks and advantages, anticipated results of imaging examinations or treatments, and any essential precautions while speaking with a nuclear medicine professional. Ask about experience with the conditions and their success rates.
What are the most common types of conditions that nuclear medicine specialists treat?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Whitefield at Aster Bangalore frequently handle diseases such as prostate cancer, neuroendocrine tumours, most other advanced solid tumours expressing FAPI, bone metastases, and thyroid illnesses (such as hyperthyroidism and thyroid cancer). Targeted radionuclide therapy can direct radiation towards cancer cells, specifically increasing the effectiveness of treatment while reducing harm to nearby healthy tissues.
What is the role of a nuclear medicine specialist in a patient's treatment?
Nuclear medicine specialists in Whitefield at Aster Bangalore's responsibility in a patient's care includes using cutting-edge imaging methods to diagnose illnesses, organising and executing specific radionuclide therapy, and working with other medical specialists to create all-encompassing treatment regimens. Their proficiency in molecular imaging facilitates more accurate and timely diagnosis and treatment of various ailments.
How should I prepare for my first visit to a nuclear medicine specialist?
Bring your medical history, a list of your current medicines, and any prior imaging findings with you to your initial appointment with a nuclear medicine expert. Observe any dietary, pharmaceutical, or hydration guidelines that may be provided. Prepare to go into great depth about your symptoms and concerns in order to help with a precise diagnosis and customised treatment plan.
