Your Bone Health Experts
Zwanger-Pesiri Radiology’s advanced Nuclear Medicine Department is committed to delivering accurate, high-quality diagnostic imaging through a combination of board-certified nuclear medicine physicians and state-of-the-art technology. Our specialized team focuses on providing precise evaluations in a comfortable, supportive environment, ensuring each patient receives personalized care. By utilizing the latest imaging systems and proven diagnostic protocols, we help physicians detect bone conditions early, monitor disease progression, and develop effective treatment plans with confidence.
What are the benefits of a Nuclear Bone Scan?
- Detects bone abnormalities earlier than many other imaging methods.
- Helps identify fractures, infections, arthritis, and bone tumors.
- Assists in evaluating cancer spread to the bones.
- Monitors response to treatment and disease progression.
- Provides whole-body imaging in a single exam.
- Noninvasive and generally well tolerated by patients.
How does a Nuclear Bone Scan work?
- High Sensitivity and Specificity: Detects even small or early-stage prostate cancer lesions.
- Detailed Mapping: Provides a clearer understanding of cancer spread, including lymph nodes and distant organs.
- Improved Treatment Planning: Helps tailor therapies to the patient’s specific condition, increasing treatment effectiveness.
- Minimally Invasive: Requires only a small injection of the tracer, with no surgical intervention.
- Quick Results: The imaging process is efficient, allowing doctors to make timely decisions.
PSMA PET scans represent a significant advancement in prostate cancer care, and ZP is proud to offer this cutting-edge technology to ensure men receive the best diagnostic care possible. Read more about PET/CT imaging at ZP.
Frequently Asked Questions
- There is NO DIETARY PREP for this exam.
- No metal on clothing, no metal buttons, zippers, or snaps.
- PSMA PET scan appointments must be booked at least 48 hours in advance.
- This test can only be booked between 8:00am-4:00pm Monday-Friday, Saturdays 8am-12pm.
- Please call our Nuclear Medicine department at 631-444-5544, ext 2020.
During a PSMA PET scan, the patient receives an injection containing a small amount of radioactive tracer designed to attach to prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) found on prostate cancer cells. After the injection, there is a short waiting period that allows the tracer to circulate throughout the body.
Once the tracer has had time to distribute, the patient lies on a table that moves slowly into the PET scanner. The scanner then captures detailed three-dimensional images, highlighting areas where the tracer has attached to PSMA. This helps physicians identify potential cancerous cells within the body.
The procedure is painless, noninvasive, and usually takes about 50 to 75 minutes to complete.