Nuclear medicine is a specialized area of radiology that uses very small amounts of radioactive materials (given either orally or intravenously) to examine an organ's structure and metabolic function, and is used to: Evaluate blood flow and function of the heart Identify bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract Analyze kidney function Measure thyroid function Identify gallbladder blockage Evaluate the lungs for respiratory or blood flow problems (Pulmonary Embolism) Locate presence of infection Evaluate bones for fracture, infection, arthritis or tumor   Northwest Healthcare's nuclear medicine technologists utilize advanced technology that delivers results quickly so doctors can begin treatment as soon as possible.