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Department of Nuclear Medicine
Bone Densitometry
There are approximately 22 staff in the Nuclear Medicine department including Nuclear Medicine Technologists who carry out the examination, Nuclear Medicine Specialists who interpret images, report on findings and perform therapeutic interventions, laboratory staff responsible for preparing radiation doses and clerical support staff. Services are provided during normal office hours and an on-call service is also available. Patients may visit the Department for short periods or may have to attend over a number of days. Research ActivitiesResearch is an integral part of Royal Perth Hospital's clinical and educational activities, and its staff make significant international contributions to the understanding of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. The Department has a strong tradition of research and development activities including participation in multi-department and multi-centre projects, participation in major national and international conferences, and publication of medical and scientific reports. RPH staff make significant international contributions to the understanding of the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of disease. Regular meetings, attended by referring clinicians and imaging specialists, are held to discuss current, interesting and complex cases, and to define the best imaging solution to assist with diagnosis and treatment. Teaching ActivitiesThe Department has a strong tradition of engaging in educational activities, including providing lectures and tutorials to students from a variety of tertiary education institutions. Staff are active members of a wide range of professional associations concerned with the examination, accreditation, registration, and further professional development of appropriately qualified individuals. Teaching and learning activities include:
ContactsDepartment of Nuclear MedicineGeneral Enquiries & Bookings: 08 9224 2094
Information for PatientsHours of Operation Department of Nuclear Medicine
After hours please contact the Emergency Department on 9224 2122. |
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Nuclear Medicine uses short-lived isotopes (radiation) to image any organ system in the body. Specific isotopes are injected, inhaled or ingested according to the system under investigation. Radiation is then observed via a gamma camera. This specialist service provides diagnostic images and performs therapeutic procedures to treat specific medical disorders. Isotopes used in Nuclear Medicine do not have any side effects and expose the patient to a minimal amount of radiation, compared to those from some radiological examinations. The department offers the full range of diagnostic procedures and radionuclide therapy services.
For more information regarding a Nuclear Medicine scan please refer to the following brochure produced by the 
Bone Densitometry is performed in the Nuclear Medicine department to investigate the presence of osteoporosis. This procedure uses a small dose of X-rays (less than the background radiation) and a measurement of bone density is obtained. Whole body images can also be obtained for calculation of body composition (i.e. fat, lean, and bone). For more information regarding a bone densitometry examination please refer to the information contained on the