What is a nuclear medicine procedure?

A nuclear medicine procedure is specifically defined as a diagnostic or therapeutic technique that incorporates the use of radioactive materials. In this field, small amounts of radioactive substances are employed to visualize and assess the function of organs, tissues, or systems within the body. This is typically achieved through imaging technologies like PET scans or SPECT scans, which detect the radiation emitted by these substances.

The radioactive materials can also be utilized for therapeutic purposes, such as treating certain types of cancer by delivering targeted radiation to malignancies. This ability to both diagnose and treat conditions makes nuclear medicine a unique and versatile specialty within medical practice.

In contrast, other options do not accurately define nuclear medicine. Physical therapy, genetic testing, and surgical operations involve different methodologies, objectives, and tools entirely separate from the principles and practices of nuclear medicine.