Nuclear Medicine

Nuclear medicine is a medical specialty that uses small amounts of radioactive substances, known as radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose various conditions, including cancers, heart disease, neurological disease and certain infections. These radioactive materials are injected into the body, inhaled, or ingested orally. They emit radiation which is then detected by special imaging equipment, such as a gamma camera/SPECT-CT or PET (positron emission tomography) scanner, providing both functional (metabolic) and structural information in one test.

The Nuclear Medicine Department at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital is currently equipped with a high-end PET-CT scanner, providing advanced molecular imaging services. At present, the department offers PET-CT scans using FDG and F-18 based radiopharmaceuticals, catering to a wide range of oncological and non-oncological indications. Plans are in place to expand diagnostic capabilities by introducing gallium-based radiopharmaceuticals, which will further enhance the range of imaging services. In the near future, the department aims to broaden its scope by establishing a SPECT-CT unit, enabling hybrid imaging for various functional and anatomical assessments. Additionally, therapeutic services are set to be introduced, including iodine therapy for hyperthyroidism, high dose iodine therapy for thyroid cancers, Lu-177 therapy for neuroendocrine tumours and prostate cancer, and Y-90 therapy for liver malignancies. These planned advancements will significantly strengthen the department’s role in personalized medicine, offering both diagnostic and targeted therapeutic solutions under one roof.