Lacrimal Study (NDCGM)

Please complete your appointment details FROM YOUR APPOINTMENT LETTER and bring this leaflet with you.

What is 'nuclear medicine'?

Nuclear medicine refers to the medical use of radioactive tracers for the diagnosis and sometimes treatment, of medical conditions.

Nuclear medicine tests are helpful to diagnose a wide variety of illnesses. The clinician that referred you to nuclear medicine will have already explained to you the reasons for having this test.

This leaflet is to explain your scan and provide you with some general information. The procedure will be fully explained to you when you attend. We are happy to provide additional information before hand and our contact details are on the back of this leaflet.

Benefits of nuclear medicine tests and are they dangerous?

Nuclear medicine procedures are commonly used diagnostic tools that utilise ionising radiation to obtain important clinical information.

There are small risks associated with the use of ionising radiation. Ionising radiation can cause cell damage that can, after many years or decades, contribute to the development of cancerous cells. This procedure carries only a very small chance of this happening to you. Our tests have been optimised by a team of clinical scientists and technologists to ensure that the dose you receive is appropriate for your test.

Your doctor will have considered the risk and benefits of having the test before referring you to us. The benefits of the test outweigh the potential risk.

Will it hurt?

This procedure will not cause any pain or irritation to your eyes. There are no side effects from the tracer, and no restrictions following the test. You will be able to continue with your usual daily activities.

What is a Lacrimal study?

This test is used to access the drainage and function of your lacrimal ducts. It is used to detect blockages of the ducts that can result in epiphora.

Do I need to prepare for the test?

No. You may eat and drink normally before the test, and continue taking any medication.

How is the test carried out?

EYE DROPS:

• You will be seated in front of a gamma camera and a small droplet of radioactive fluid will be placed into each eye.

SCANS:

• The first scan will be started immediately after the eye drops and will last for ten minutes.
• We will then perform a quick scan of your lacrimal ducts every 20 minutes for up to an hour. Further images may be required.
• You will NOT be going into a ‘tunnel’, but you will need to sit still during the images.

How long will the test take?

Up to 1 ½ hours may be required depending on how many pictures we need to take.

What if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

It is usual to avoid radioactive tests during pregnancy. Small amounts of some radioactive substances may appear in breast milk. Patients who are breast feeding and those that know, or suspect that they are pregnant should contact the department before attending to discuss this further and should also inform the department upon arrival.

What happens after the test?

When we have checked the technical quality of your scan and are happy we have all the information we need, you will be able to leave the department. You are free to go home or return to your ward. There are no restrictions following this test.

Your results will be reported and available from your referring clinician/ team or GP within 3 weeks after your appointment. If you have MyChart, your results will become available once released by your referring consultant.

Family / friends

Due to the small size of the waiting area in Nuclear Medicine we ask that you please limit the number of people accompanying you for your visit. Children and pregnant women should not accompany you to the Nuclear Medicine department.

Travelling abroad?

Please be aware that most airports have sensitive radiation monitors which detect very small amounts of radiation and may detect a residue trace from your test. We advise you keep and travel with your appointment letter if you are travelling within the next few days.

How to find / contact the department

The Nuclear Medicine department is located on level 3, in the outpatient end of the hospital. If you have any queries or cannot make your appointment please contact the department as soon as possible on 01223 217145.

Opening times: Monday-Friday 8am-5pm.

Medication:

Bring all of your medicines (including inhalers, injections, creams, eye drops or patches) and a current repeat prescription from your GP

Please tell the ward staff about all of the medicines you use. During your stay If you wish to take your medication yourself (self-medicate) please speak with your nurse. Pharmacists visit the wards regularly and can help with any medicine queries.

MyChart:

We would encourage you to sign up for MyChart. This is the electronic patient portal at Cambridge University Hospitals that enables patients to securely access parts of their health record held within the hospital’s electronic patient record system (Epic). It is available via your home computer or mobile device.

More information is available on our MyChart page.

Contacts/Further information

Nuclear Medicine department 01223 217145

Privacy & dignity

Same sex bays and bathrooms are offered in all wards except critical care and theatre recovery areas where the use of high-tech equipment and/or specialist one to one care is required.