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Gamma Scan: What It Is, How It Works & What It Detects  

Written By:

Dr. Preeti Singh

Consultant -PET CT and Gamma Scan

Sohana Hospital, Mohali.

Experience

Published:  

Last Updated:  11/07/2026

Medically Reviewed: 

Reported Gamma Scans are increasing day by day, and their methodology helps us have a better image of how the organ is working. In this blog, we talk about what Gamma Scan is, how Gamma Scan works, what is detected by Gamma Scans, and how Sohana Hospital is regarded as the Best Gamma Scan Centre in Mohali

What is Gamma Scan?

Also called scintigraphy, a gamma scan is a test used to create a picture of the functioning of the organ. A specialized device called a gamma camera captures the gamma rays emitted by the tracer to map organ function and detect diseases. It’s the most commonly used test for detection of cancers like Bone Scans, thyroid Scan, renal scans, and lung scans. 

How does Gamma Scan Work? 

A small dose of a radioactive substance is administered via injection, which then travels through the bloodstream and accumulates in the specific tissue or organ being studied. After allowing time for the tracer to concentrate in the target area, the patient lies on a scanning table. An external gamma camera is positioned over the body to detect the escaping gamma radiation. 

What is detected by Gamma Scans ?

Gamma scans help create a picture of how organs and tissues are actively functioning. A nuclear medicine test where a radioactive tracer (gallium) is injected into the bloodstream, and is moved all around the body to get the picture of the organ to be tested. The most modern standard in nuclear medicine for detecting and managing specific types of malignancies is the Gallium-68. These are used to detect cancers like Prostate cancer, Neuroendocrine tumors. 

How can Sohana Hospital help me with Gamma Scans?

Sohana Hospital has all the right and modern technologies for the Gamma scan, making it the Best Gamma Scan Centre in Mohali. The technology shows a detailed and high contrast image of the organs for its functioning at gamma imaging center, giving you clearer details.  The Nuclear Medicine Centre in Mohali is made easy to access by Sohana Hospital.                                                                                                                                                  

Frequently Asked Questions

How does a gamma scan work?

A patient receives a small, safe dose of a radioactive tracer, which then travels to specific organs or tissues and emits gamma rays, and gives a detailed image of the functioning of the body with the help of a specialized gamma camera.

What happens if gamma radiation gets into your body?

The extreme energy of the gamma radiation allows them to pass completely through, tearing through cells and ionizing atoms. The outcome depends heavily on the dosage, monitoring the effects, a safe session can be done with the rays.

How can Sohana Hospital help me with Gamma Scans?

Sohana Hospital has the new and a wide range of gamma scan equipment, making the test much smoother. Sohana Hospital provides a Safe, Affordable & Quick nuclear medicine scan that gives a clearer picture of how well blood is flowing to different parts of the body. Whole Body Gamma Scan in Chandigarh is made easily accessible by the hospital. 

How long does a gamma scan take?

The actual imaging process for a gamma scan takes about 30 to 60 minutes, whereas the hospital visit usually lasts 2 to 4 hours. The exact time depends on the cause of the test, whether it’s for a Bone Scan, or a HIDA Scan. 

Can a gallium scan detect cancer?

Gallium scan is a nuclear medicine test where a radioactive tracer is injected into the bloodstream. It is useful for identifying and staging lymphoma, leukemia, melanoma, and certain sarcomas. 

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Preeti Singh

Sohana Hospital, Mohali.

Last Updated:11/07/2026

Credentials of the Author:

-DRM ; DNB Nuclear Medicine

-10+ Years of Experience

-Specialist in PET CT, and Gamma Scan.