Name of the Procedure:

Iodine I-131 Sodium Iodide Solution, Diagnostic
Common Names: I-131 Scan, Radionuclide Scan, Radioiodine Scanning
Technical Terms: Iodine-131 Sodium Iodide Solution Diagnostic, I-131 Imaging

Summary:

In this procedure, a small amount of radioactive iodine (I-131) is administered to a patient to help diagnose thyroid gland issues. The thyroid absorbs iodine, so imaging can show areas of abnormal function.

Purpose:

This procedure is primarily used to diagnose thyroid conditions such as hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, and to evaluate the function and anatomy of the thyroid gland. The goal is to gather detailed images and information about the thyroid's activity.

Indications:

• Unexplained hyperthyroidism symptoms like rapid heart rate, weight loss, and sweating
• Suspected thyroid cancer
• Evaluation of thyroid nodules
• Post-treatment follow-up for thyroid cancer
• Goiter or enlarged thyroid

Preparation:

• Patients may need to fast for 4-6 hours before the procedure.
• Any iodine-containing medications or supplements should be stopped, typically 1-2 weeks prior.
• A comprehensive medical history and potentially some blood tests will be done beforehand to assess thyroid function.

Procedure Description:

1. The patient swallows a capsule or drink containing a measured amount of I-131.
2. The patient waits for a period (usually 24 hours) for the iodine to be absorbed by the thyroid gland.
3. A gamma camera or similar scanner is then used to detect the radiation emitted by the I-131.
4. Images of the thyroid are captured.
5. The radiation dose is minimal and carefully controlled to ensure safety.

Duration:

The imaging part of the procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes, but the entire process including preparation might span over 24-48 hours.

Setting:

This procedure is often conducted in a nuclear medicine department within a hospital or an outpatient clinic specialized in diagnostic imaging.

Personnel:

• Nuclear Medicine Physician
• Radiologic Technologist
• Nurse (if sedation or additional medical support is needed)

Risks and Complications:

• Minimal radiation exposure
• Rare allergic reactions to the iodine
• Potential interference with pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Temporary minor swelling or tenderness in the thyroid area

Benefits:

• Provides critical information for the diagnosis and management of thyroid diseases
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort
• Can aid in early detection of thyroid cancer
• Helps tailor personalized treatment plans

Recovery:

• Return to normal activities immediately after the scan.
• Hydration is encouraged to help eliminate the radioiodine from the body.
• Follow-up appointment for discussing results and next steps.

Alternatives:

• Ultrasound of the thyroid
• Thyroid function blood tests
• CT or MRI scans, though less specific for thyroid tissue
• Observation and clinical evaluation
• Fine needle aspiration biopsy for nodules

Patient Experience:

• Some patients might experience mild nausea after swallowing the iodine.
• The scanning is painless, though lying still is required.
• Comfort measures can include listening to music or conscious sedation if the patient feels anxious.
• Pain management is generally not needed as the procedure is non-invasive.