Nuclear
Medicine
Nuclear Medicine SPECT/CT
Nuclear Medicine at X-Ray
Associates of New Mexico
X-Ray Associates of New Mexico offers Nuclear Medicine imaging at the Stephen G. Babel - El Camino Imaging Center in Albuquerque, NM. In addition to most general nuclear medicine procedures, we also offer SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography) and SPECT/CT. Nuclear medicine is a diagnostic test that utilizes a small amount of radioactive material, known as a tracer, that is either injected intravenously or given by mouth in a pill form. It is usually targeted to a specific organ such as the bones, thyroid, lungs, heart, internal organs, or breasts. The radioactive tracer emits gamma rays that can be detected by a specialized camera and computer. A functional and anatomic picture of the respective organ can then be displayed showing either increased or decreased activity. Below is an example of a SPECT/CT Scan.
Understanding
Nuclear Medicine
What is the Role of Nuclear Medicine?
Nuclear Medicine exams are non-invasive tests that are frequently done first before more invasive procedures are performed, such as biopsies or surgeries. These types of non-invasive exams are the best early warning system for certain kinds of thyroid disease, tumors, changes to bone structure or density, and can help with very specific disease detection, such as Parkinson’s Disease.
Clinical Indication
- Thyroid function or nodules
- Presence or absence of cancer
- Gastric emptying
- Renal function
- Gall bladder blockage
- Sites of bleeding or infection
- Abnormalities of the bones such as fracture, infection, or tumor
- Parkinson’s Disease
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Preparation for Exam
Preparation varies. We will discuss it individually with you before your exam.
02
Results
A specially-trained radiologist will interpret, analyze, and report your exam results to your physician.
03
Risk
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding you must notify our office. As with most radiologic tests, allergies are rare.
04
Service Location
Nuclear Medicine and SPECT/CT exams are available at our El Camino Imaging Center in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Nuclear Medicine Exams
- Bone Scan, Limited
- Bone Scan/SPECT
- Bone Scan, Three-Phase
- Ceretec/Neurolite Brain Scan (Brain Perfusion Study/SPECT)
- DaTscan
- Enalapril/Captopril/Vasotec
- Gastric Emptying Scan
- Hepatobiliary Imaging with CCK
- Hyperthyroid Therapy
- I-131 Whole Body Scan
- Liver/Spleen Scan
- Lung Perfusion Studies
- Lymphoscintigraphy Exams
- Meckel's Scan
- Parathyroid Imaging with SPECT/CT
- Renal Blood Flow Scan
- Renal Scan
- Renogram
- Renogram with Lasix
- Sphincter of Oddi (SOD) Evaluation
- Thyroid Treatment w/I-131 for Hyperthyroid
- Thyroid Uptake & Scan
Accreditation
X-Ray Associates of New Mexico is proud to be fully accredited by the IAC for Nuclear Medicine—an achievement that underscores our strong commitment to quality, precision, and accountability in patient care.
Our Locations
For more than 75 years, X-Ray Associates of New Mexico has been a trusted partner in healthcare across New Mexico. Our kind staff and expert radiologists are dedicated to ensuring both your comfort and safety. To get started, click the button below to find a convenient location near you.
Let Us Help You
Hours: Monday through Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
To schedule an appointment, click the button below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can!