Nuclear Medicine • Thyroid Scan

Scans of the thyroid are performed to evaluate possible masses and overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Before the exam you should stop any thyroid medicines, decongestants, and vitamins three days before the study. You should not eat or drink 12 hours prior to the study. When you arrive at the hospital you will register at the radiology outpatient desk. They will notify the technologist that you are here and they will come to get you for your exam. You will be given a pill to take orally and then be able to leave the hospital. Arrangements will be made for you to return to the department in 6 hours and 24 hours for images to be obtained. Images take approximately 20 - 25 minutes and are taken with a small cylindrical "camera" while you sit in a chair. Following completion of the exam the technologist will escort you back to the lobby or to your next appointment.

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