|

TOLL FREE:  

1-866-611-2665

WHAT IS NUCLEAR MEDICINE IMAGING?

Nuclear medicine imaging uses small amounts of radioactive materials, also called radiopharmaceuticals, to look at specific organs to see if they are functioning properly. After the radiopharmaceutical is given, it goes to the specific organ to be examined. A device called a gamma camera detects the location of the radiopharmaceutical and provides information about the specific organ’s function.

WHEN WOULD I NEED THIS IMAGING?

There are many instances in which nuclear medicine imaging might be appropriate to investigate a particular concern. Below are two examples of fictitious patients who illustrate two common patient pathways.

SCENARIO 1: 60-YEAR-OLD “ANNA” HAS BACK PAIN

Anna suffers from chronic back pain and her doctor is considering pain management injections to alleviate her symptoms. It’s difficult for her physician to pinpoint the location of her back pain, but the presumptive diagnosis is that it’s coming from the facet joints in Anna’s lower back (lumbar spine). In this case, a nuclear medicine bone scan study can be used to help localize potential sites for an injection.

Anna’s doctor faxes a requisition to Mayfair Diagnosis requesting that Anna be booked for a pain management injection and a bone scan with SPECT/CT. A Mayfair booking agent contacts Anna to confirm the details of her appointments, including a reminder that the bone scan is a two-part appointment. She also confirms that Anna is not pregnant and not currently breastfeeding.

Part one of Anna’s bone scan with SPECT/CT appointment 8:30 a.m.: 

  • The radiopharmaceutical is injected into an arm vein. This part of her appointment takes 10-15 minutes.
  • After this, she is reminded to stay hydrated before she returns for part two.

Part two of Anna’s bone scan with SPECT/CT appointment 11:30 a.m.:

  • At this part of her appointment, Anna is positioned under the gamma camera for approximately 30 minutes. During this time, images are taken of her lumbar spine (Figure 1). For the SPECT/CT portion of the scan, the gamma camera takes images while rotating around Anna’s body.
  • After this appointment, Anna has completed her test.

The SPECT/CT images are analyzed by a nuclear medicine physician and an area of activity on the scan is identified that could be a cause of her back pain. This finding is relayed back to the referring physician, who agrees it could be a site of her back pain. A pain management injection is then planned at this location.

Figure 1: An area of activity (yellow, boxes E, F, and G) in the lumbar spine facet joint that may be a cause of Anna’s back pain. This is an example of a bone scan SPECT/CT study.

After speaking with her doctor, Anna books a pain management appointment for her back injection.

SCENARIO 2: “JEFF” HAS CHEST PAIN

Jeff’s doctor refers him for myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI) study to determine if his heart could be a cause of his chest pain.

A requisition with a resting electrocardiogram (ECG) result and recent blood work are sent to Mayfair Diagnostics. The booking team then contacts Jeff with details on the date and time for his exam and how to prepare for the two-day procedure. He is also told to come with a small sandwich for a snack on the first appointment day.

Jeff’s appointment day 1 – Tuesday, 2 p.m.:

  • Jeff fasts for four hours prior to this appointment, starting at 10:00am.
  • At this visit, Jeff receives the radiopharmaceutical injection into an arm vein while he is resting in a chair.
  • The imaging is performed 45 minutes later after Jeff has eaten his sandwich. The images take approximately 15 to 20 minutes and show Jeff’s blood flow to his heart muscle while he is resting under the gamma camera.
  • The appointment takes two hours, and afterwards Jeff returns to his daily activities.

Jeff’s appointment day 2 – Wednesday, 9 a.m.:

  • Jeff prepares for this appointment by having nothing to eat for four hours prior to the appointment, and by wearing exercise clothing for the exercise or stress portion of this study.
  • At this appointment, electrodes are placed on Jeff’s chest and an intravenous (IV) line is inserted into his arm. He then meets an internal medicine specialist physician to discuss his medical history and symptoms prior to doing the exercise portion of the study.
  • Then, Jeff walks on a treadmill as it gradually increases in speed and inclination. Once he starts to feel tired, the radiopharmaceutical is injected into the IV and he stops walking.
  • After the injection, Jeff rests for about 20 minutes. Then he lies under the nuclear medicine gamma camera for another set of images. These images show how Jeff’s heart muscle functions with this stress (Figure 2).
  • The appointment takes two hours, and afterwards Jeff returns to his daily activities.

Within a few days, Jeff’s doctor receives the following information:

  • A comprehensive consultation report from the internal medicine specialist.
  • Results of the exercise stress test.
  • Results of the myocardial perfusion imaging study.

In the end, Jeff’s results all come back normal, which is reassuring for him and his physician because it suggests blood flow to his heart muscle is not a cause of his chest pain.

Figure 2: Jeff’s normal MPI study.

Figure 3: Example of an abnormal MPI study.

For more information about nuclear medicine imaging, please visit our services page or speak with your health care practitioner.

Related Articles

Mayfair Diagnostics

Calgary

TOLL FREE: 1-866-611-2665

ONLINE
BOOKING

Radiologist

Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.

Administration

Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant

Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.

Patient Experience Coordinator

Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.

Nuclear Medicine Technologist

Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.

CT Technologist

Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.

MRI Technologist

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.

Diagnostic Medical Sonographer

Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.

Medical Radiation Technologist

Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care.  They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.

Our Culture

We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:

  • We recognize each other for our contributions – big and small.
  • We focus on teamwork and personal accountability to achieve our goals.
  • When we commit to deadlines, we complete the work as promised, by when we promised. If we realize we can’t keep our commitments, we collaborate to find new deadlines well in advance of the original ones.
  • We feel safe to speak up responsibly. That means we freely share what’s on our minds in a way that is respectful and supports the success of the organization.
  • We commit to our patients and their needs. We show up each day ready to live our vision, mission, and values.
  • We challenge each other to grow and develop our skills and we support each other to do so.
  • Above all, we go the extra mile to support our patients and colleagues. 

Our Values.

Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:

EXCELLENCE

We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.

CURIOSITY

We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.

PASSION

We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.

COLLABORATION

Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.

SERVICE

We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.

Start with us.

Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.

Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.

OUR TEAMS

We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.

OUR VISION

We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.

We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.

We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.