What Positron Emission Tomography (PET/CT)?
Positron Emission Tomography (PET/CT) is a diagnostic examination where a radioactive substance is administered to the patient. This substance localizes to different areas of the body depending on changes in tissue metabolism and is detected by the PET/CT scanner. The PET/CT scan allows doctors to evaluate a variety of diseases anywhere in the body, including the heart and brain.
What conditions does a PET scan help diagnose?
PET/CT scans are most often used to detect cancer and to examine the effects of cancer therapy by characterizing biochemical changes in the cancer. This procedure can also determine whether a growth is malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous), evaluate the progression of disease, and assess the effects of clinical therapies.
In addition, PET/CT is used to evaluate patients who have memory disorders such as Alzheimer's Disease, seizure disorders that are not responsive to medical therapy and for the assessment of cardiovascular disease.
How should I prepare for a PET scan?
Your provider will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your scan. A general rule is to avoid strenuous exercise for a couple of days before the study and to stop eating four hours before the scan.
If you have any of the items listed below, please let us know so we can make arrangements for you before your appointment.
- Had a bad allergic reaction
- Have medical condition, such as diabetes
- Taking any medicines, vitamins or herbal supplements
- Pregnancy
- Breastfeeding
- Claustrophobia
What should I expect during a PET scan?
The PET/CT scanner is a large machine that looks similar to a CT scanners. From start to finish, the procedure takes about two hours to complete. You might receive contrast intravenously to enhance the images produced by the machine. You rest and remain silent in a reclining chair for 30 to 60 minutes while the radioactive substance takes affect. When you are ready, you lie on a narrow, padded table that slides into the scanner. During the scan, lie as still as you can. It takes about 30 minutes to complete a PET/CT scan. You won't feel anything, so please relax comfortably while the table moves throughout your exam.
After the test you can carry on with your day as usual unless your provider tells you otherwise. You'll need to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the tracer from your body.
What happens after a PET scan?
After your PET/CT scan, the images are reviewed by a trained radiologist. They interpret the images to diagnose any abnormalities or conditions. Your doctor will then discuss the results with you and recommend any necessary follow-up actions or treatments based on the findings.