Overview
A Radioiodine whole-body scan is performed for patients with thyroid cancer to assess the state post-surgery.
The procedure involves taking a small amount of radioactive iodine, which is absorbed by the thyroid gland. A gamma camera then takes images to assess how your thyroid absorbs iodine and how it functions.
Doctors recommend a radioiodine scan to:
- Evaluate thyroid cancer after surgery or treatment
- Plan dosage of therapeutic radioiodine
- Dietary Restrictions: You will be asked to follow a low-iodine diet 1-2 weeks before the scan.
- Medications: Few medications need to be stopped before the scan. Please contact the Nuclear Medicine department or your doctor.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Inform your doctor if you suspect you may be or are pregnant or breastfeeding. This scan is generally not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Radioiodine administration: You will be given a small dose of radioactive iodine, either in the form of a pill or a liquid. This iodine will be absorbed by your thyroid gland over several hours.
- Waiting period: After taking the iodine, you will then have to return the next or day after for the scan depending on what information you doctor needs.
- Scan: You will be asked to lie down on a table, and a special camera will capture images of your thyroid gland. The scan is painless and takes around 30 to 60 minutes.
- You can usually return to your normal activities right after the scan.
- The radioactive iodine will pass naturally through your body, usually within a few days.
- Drink plenty of water to help flush out the iodine.
