Nuclear Medicine
The Nuclear Medicine Department at Burjeel Cancer Institute offers cutting-edge diagnostic and therapeutic services using radioactive substances to diagnose and treat cancer. Our expert team of nuclear medicine specialists uses advanced imaging techniques such as PET-CT and SPECT-CT to detect cancers at their earliest stages and monitor treatment progress. In addition, we provide targeted radionuclide therapies for specific types of cancer, ensuring personalized and precise treatment options.
Conditions We Treat
Our nuclear medicine services are used to diagnose and treat a variety of cancers, including:
- Lung Cancer
- Breast Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Thyroid Cancer
- Lymphoma (Hodgkin's and non-Hodgkin's)
- Neuroendocrine Tumors
- Liver Cancer
- Bone Metastases from Various Cancers
- Other Solid Tumors and Metastatic Cancer
Diagnostic Services
We use advanced nuclear imaging technologies to accurately diagnose cancer and assess the response to treatment:
Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography (PET-CT)
A highly sensitive imaging technique that combines PET and CT scans to detect cancer activity and monitor the effectiveness of treatments. PET-CT is particularly useful in detecting cancers at early stages and in monitoring metastatic spread.
Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography-Computed Tomography (SPECT-CT)
Combines nuclear medicine and CT imaging to provide detailed images of internal organs and tissues, often used to detect bone metastases and evaluate other cancer-related conditions.
Bone Scintigraphy (Bone Scan)
Used to detect bone metastases in patients with breast, prostate, or lung cancer, providing early detection of cancer spread to the bones.
Thyroid Scans
Radioactive iodine scans to assess thyroid cancer or detect recurrence in patients previously treated for thyroid cancer.
Therapeutic Services
In addition to diagnostic imaging, we offer radionuclide therapies for the treatment of specific cancers, including:
Radioactive Iodine Therapy (I-131)
Used to treat thyroid cancer by targeting and destroying cancerous thyroid tissue with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissue.
Peptide Receptor Radionuclide Therapy (PRRT)
A targeted treatment for neuroendocrine tumors that delivers radiation directly to cancer cells, minimizing damage to healthy tissue.
Radionuclide Therapy for Bone Metastases
Using radium-223 or other radioactive substances to target and treat bone metastases in patients with advanced prostate, breast, or other cancers, helping to relieve pain and slow the progression of cancer.
Selective Internal Radiation Therapy (SIRT)
A form of internal radiation therapy used to treat liver cancer or liver metastases by delivering radiation directly to the tumor through the bloodstream.
Our Approach to Treatment
At Burjeel Cancer Institute, we take a patient-centered approach to nuclear medicine, ensuring the safest and most effective use of radioactive substances for both diagnosis and therapy:
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Our nuclear medicine specialists work closely with oncologists, surgeons, radiologists, and other specialists to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient.
Precision Imaging
We use advanced imaging techniques like PET-CT and SPECT-CT to detect cancers early, allowing for prompt and accurate treatment.
Targeted Radionuclide Therapy
Our therapies are designed to deliver radiation directly to cancer cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues, ensuring effective treatment with fewer side effects.
Diagnostic and Monitoring Tools
Our nuclear medicine department is equipped with state-of-the-art technologies to ensure precise diagnosis and monitoring of cancer:
PET-CT
Combines metabolic and anatomical imaging, allowing for early detection of cancer and monitoring of treatment response.
SPECT-CT
Provides detailed imaging of bones, organs, and soft tissues, used to detect metastases or evaluate organ function.
Gamma Camera
Used to capture images of radioactive substances inside the body, helping to visualize tumors and detect cancerous activity.
Bone Scan
Detects cancer spread to the bones, often used in patients with breast, prostate, or lung cancer.
Thyroid Scan
Uses radioactive iodine to evaluate thyroid function and detect cancerous tissue.
Supportive Care and Patient Services
In addition to diagnostic and therapeutic services, we provide supportive care for patients undergoing nuclear medicine treatments:
Patient Education
We ensure patients and families understand the process of nuclear medicine treatments, including any necessary precautions to minimize radiation exposure.
Symptom Management
For patients receiving radionuclide therapy, we offer symptom management services to address any side effects and ensure the best possible quality of life during treatment.
Psychosocial Support
Counseling and emotional support are available to help patients and families cope with the emotional and psychological challenges of a cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Advanced Nuclear Medicine Techniques
Our nuclear medicine department uses the latest techniques to ensure the highest level of accuracy and effectiveness:
Hybrid Imaging (PET-CT and SPECT-CT)
Combines the functional imaging of nuclear medicine with the anatomical imaging of CT scans, providing detailed and accurate information about cancer location and activity.
Theranostics
Combines diagnostic imaging with targeted radionuclide therapy, allowing for personalized treatment that targets specific cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues.
Radionuclide Therapy for Metastatic Cancer
Uses radioactive substances to target cancer that has spread to bones or other organs, providing pain relief and slowing cancer progression.
Patient Journey
Our patients receive expert, compassionate care throughout their nuclear medicine treatment journey:
Initial Consultation
A thorough assessment by a nuclear medicine specialist, including diagnostic imaging and review of medical history to determine the most appropriate tests or treatments.
Imaging and Diagnosis
Advanced nuclear imaging techniques such as PET-CT or SPECT-CT are used to diagnose cancer and assess its spread.
Therapeutic Planning
For patients requiring radionuclide therapy, a personalized treatment plan is developed based on the type and stage of cancer.
Treatment Delivery
Radionuclide therapy is administered in a safe, controlled environment, with ongoing monitoring to assess the patient's response to treatment.
Post-Treatment Care
Regular follow-up appointments to monitor recovery, assess the success of the treatment, and manage any side effects.
