Nuclear medicine: Advanced molecular imaging with targeted therapy, compassionate care

At KD Cancer Centre, we recognise the importance of providing patients and families with clear answers and appropriate treatments while minimising stress. Our Nuclear Medicine Department integrates advanced molecular imaging, theranostics, and targeted nuclear therapy to enable early disease detection and guide precise treatment, while keeping patient comfort and safety at the centre of everything we do.

What is nuclear medicine?

Nuclear medicine is a safe imaging technique that uses medical-grade radioactive tracers to visualise how organs and tissues function within the body, helping doctors detect diseases early and plan more precise treatments.

Unlike routine scans that show structure, nuclear medicine reveals the functionality of organs and disease. This helps doctors to:

• Detect diseases early
• Create personalised treatment plans
• Improve long-term recovery and outcomes

Advanced diagnostic facilities

We offer a full range of modern nuclear medicine investigations to support accurate diagnosis and effective treatment planning.

Our next-generation digital PET-CT system delivers exceptional accuracy for the early detection of cancer and for monitoring treatment response.

In addition to oncology, it also supports cardiac and neurological evaluations, making it a powerful tool for comprehensive patient care.

Designed with patients in mind

• Faster and more comfortable scans
• Shorter waiting times
• Low-dose radiation protocols without compromising image quality
• Wide-bore scanner to reduce anxiety and claustrophobia
• Clear and early diagnosis to guide the most appropriate treatment

Empowering doctors to treat you better

• Ultra-clear, high-resolution imaging
• Accurate assessment of disease spread and response to therapy
• A wide range of tracers for specific cancer types
• Seamless integration with treatment-planning systems so that every specialist involved in your care works with the same precise information

Gamma camera & SPECT scans

For many conditions, a PET-CT scan may not be required. Our gamma camera and SPECT studies provide reliable and accurate answers in a convenient outpatient setting.

These scans help to:

• Evaluate organ function such as the thyroid, bones, liver and kidneys.
• Detect abnormalities at an early stage.
• Monitor cancer treatment and recovery.
• Improve accuracy when combined with CT.

The procedure is simple, painless and safe—and most patients return home the same day.

Specialised nuclear therapy

Beyond diagnosis, our department also provides targeted nuclear therapy in specially designed and shielded treatment rooms.

• Delivers precise treatment directly to affected tissues
• Minimises side effects to healthy organs
• Continuous monitoring to ensure the highest safety standards
• Supported by a highly trained and compassionate care team

Why choose KD Cancer Centre for nuclear medicine?

• Cutting-edge technology for both diagnosis and therapy
• Early and accurate detection for timely treatment decisions
• Patient-first design for comfort and reduced stress
• Low-dose radiation protocols without loss of accuracy
• Multidisciplinary collaboration with oncologists, cardiologists and neurologists
• Compassionate support throughout every stage of care

At KD Cancer Centre, nuclear medicine is not only about advanced machines—it is about delivering peace of mind. From your first scan to ongoing therapy, our team is dedicated to ensuring that every patient feels safe, informed and supported.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Is nuclear medicine safe?

Yes. The amount of radiation used is low and comparable to other commonly performed imaging tests. We strictly follow international safety standards and low-dose protocols wherever possible.

2. What conditions can be detected using nuclear medicine?

Nuclear medicine is commonly used for:

Cancer – early detection, staging and treatment monitoring

Cardiology – assessing blood flow and heart function

Neurology – evaluating conditions such as epilepsy and dementia

Other organs – thyroid, kidneys, liver, bones and lungs

3. What is the difference between PET-CT, SPECT and gamma camera scans?

• PET-CT provides highly detailed images and is widely used in cancer, heart and neurological evaluations.
• SPECT and gamma camera scans are performed to study specific organ functions such as the thyroid, bones and kidneys, and are outpatient procedures.

4. How should I prepare for a PET-CT or SPECT scan?

Preparation varies depending on the type of scan. Common instructions may include:

• Avoiding food or drink for a few hours before the test
• Informing your doctor about medicines, allergies and medical conditions
• Wearing comfortable, metal-free clothing

Our team will give you clear and personalised instructions before your appointment.

5. How long does the scan take?

• PET-CT: Around 20–30 minutes (preparation may take longer)
• SPECT / gamma camera: Approximately 30 mins to 4 hours, depending on the organ being studied.

6. Will the scan be painful?

No. Nuclear medicine scans are painless. You might feel a slight pinprick during the tracer injection, akin to a standard blood test.

7. When will I receive my results?

Our nuclear medicine specialists review the scans promptly. Reports are usually shared with your treating doctor within 24–48 hours.

8. What is nuclear therapy, and who may need it?

Nuclear therapy uses targeted radioactive medicines to treat selected conditions, such as certain thyroid disorders and specific cancers. At KD Hospital, therapy is delivered in dedicated shielded rooms under close medical supervision to ensure both safety and effectiveness.

In a nutshell

At KD Cancer Centre, our nuclear medicine services use advanced technology and clinical expertise, combined with a truly patient-centred approach, to provide accurate diagnosis and targeted treatments with confidence and care. Whether it is early detection through PET-CT and SPECT imaging or precision-guided nuclear therapy, every service is designed to support timely decisions, better outcomes and a safer, more comfortable experience for patients and families.

From the first consultation to follow-up care, our dedicated team remains committed to one goal — providing reliable answers, personalised treatment pathways and compassionate support. Every patient can move forward with clarity, trust and peace of mind.