Nuclear medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating cancer and other diseases using radioactive substances.
Advanced Precision Diagnostics. Utilizing state-of-the-art technology since 1954.
“As the Head of the Department of Nuclear Medicine, I carry forward a legacy that began in 1957 when our founding pioneer, Dr. V.M. Sivaramakrishnan, established one of India's first nuclear medicine centers. Today, we honor that vision by combining our six decades of experience with cutting-edge molecular imaging and therapeutic technologies. Our department stands at the unique intersection of physics, chemistry, and medicine—using the power of radiopharmaceuticals to see what others cannot see and treat what others cannot reach. Every nuclear medicine scan, every radionuclide therapy, and every diagnostic procedure we perform is driven by one commitment: to provide our patients with the most accurate diagnosis and effective treatment possible. I am privileged to lead a dedicated team of physicians, physicists, and technologists who work tirelessly to ensure that each patient receives personalized, evidence-based care with compassion and dignity.”
Nuclear medicine focuses on diagnosing and treating cancer and other diseases using radioactive substances.
Nuclear medicine is a specialized branch of radiology using small amounts of radioactive materials, or radiopharmaceuticals, to diagnose, manage, and treat various diseases, including cancer and heart disease, by evaluating molecular and physiological function. It offers early detection of illnesses by imaging internal bodily processes rather than just anatomy, with procedures like PET and SPECT scans.
The department helps in initial diagnosis and staging of cancers, treatment planning and response assessment. It provides theranostic services for the treatment of thyroid cancer, prostate cancer, and neuroendocrine tumors, as well as diagnostic services for evaluation of organ function.
Your referring doctor will explain which imaging test is needed. Some scans require fasting or specific preparation — our team will provide clear instructions when you schedule.
Most imaging tests are painless and non-invasive. You may need to lie still for a few minutes while the scanner captures images. Our technologists ensure your comfort throughout.
Our radiologists analyze your images and prepare a detailed report for your treating doctor. Results are typically available within 24-48 hours.
Our laboratories and diagnostics systems deploy sophisticated assays, high-resolution scans, and meticulous diagnostic analytics for patient care.
PET-CT Scan (F-18 FDG) – Detects cancer spread throughout the body and monitors treatment response, molecular guided biopsy
SPECT Imaging – Provides three-dimensional functional imaging of organs
Bone Scan (Tc-99m) – Identifies bone metastases and skeletal abnormalities
Thyroid Scan (I-131) – Evaluates thyroid function and detects thyroid cancer
Hepatobiliary Scan (Tc-99m) – Assesses liver and bile duct function
Renal Scan (Tc-99m DTPA/MAG3) – Evaluates kidney function and urinary tract
Gamma Camera Imaging – Visualizes organ function and tumor localization
Cardiac Imaging – Assesses heart function before chemotherapy
Lymphoscintigraphy – Maps lymphatic drainage for surgical planning
Tumor Markers with Radionuclides – Detects specific cancer types using targeted tracers
Treatment for thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism.
Targeted therapy for neuroendocrine tumors.
Treatment for bone metastases in prostate cancer.
Advanced treatment for metastatic prostate cancer.
Pain relief from widespread bone metastases.
Targeted liver cancer treatment.
Relief of joint pain from cancer.
SPECT imaging for nuclear medicine diagnostics and organ function evaluation.
State-of-the-art molecular imaging for cancer staging and response assessment.
Intraoperative detection of sentinel lymph nodes and radioactive lesions.
Advanced radiation measurement and quality assurance equipment.
Multiple radiation protection devices ensuring safety of patients, staff, and visitors.
Dedicated suite for targeted radionuclide therapy procedures.
Department established under the visionary leadership of Dr. V.M. Sivaramakrishnan — operations began even before the Atomic Energy Establishment at Trombay started their Isotope Division.
Imported radioactive iodine and radioactive gold from Harwell, United Kingdom, and routinely used them for diagnosis and treatment before national isotope supply began in 1961.
Dr. Sivaramakrishnan initiated major research programs involving various radioisotopes with chelating agents to study metabolic pathways in biological systems.
The department has witnessed the evolution from simple radioisotope applications to sophisticated molecular imaging and advanced targeted radionuclide therapies.
Trained generations of nuclear medicine physicians and technologists who now serve across India and beyond.
A testament to our pioneering contributions in medical diagnostics, teaching, and clinical research, establishing a stellar national standard.
National Board and NABL accredited laboratories delivering unmatched reliability.
: Established November 1957 – One of India's first nuclear medicine departments
: Pioneered use of radioactive iodine and gold before national isotope supply began (1961)
: Influenced the establishment of Atomic Energy Establishment's Isotope Division
: Groundbreaking research in radioisotope applications and metabolic pathways by Dr. V.M. Sivaramakrishnan
: First centre to start I-131 therapy in Tamil Nadu
: Treated thousands of cancer patients with nuclear medicine over 65+ years
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Our imaging services are available upon referral from treating physicians.
nuclearmedicine@cancerinstituteadyar.org
For referring physicians: When ordering imaging, please include clinical history, suspected diagnosis, and specific imaging requirements to help our radiologists provide the most accurate interpretation.