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About PET/CT Scan |
POSITRON EMISSION TOMOGRAPHY (PET/CT) |
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What is a PET/CT scan? |
PET is the recognized modality that can image and measure metabolic function at the cellular level (molecular imaging). Abnormal biological changes occur much earlier than the anatomical changes (disease) identifiable by imaging exams such as MRI, CT, X-ray and ultrasound. Therefore, a PET scan detects primary and secondary disease earlier and more accurately than any other imaging modality.
CT (Computerized Tomography) is the standard in anatomical imaging. Now through the advancement in technology, a combined PET/CT scanner merges high resolution images from both technologies into a single test. Today, an integrated PET/CT scan is the most advanced imaging technology for the detection and evaluation of cancer. It has also role in certain neurological diseases like epilepsy, as well as Coronary Heart Disease. |
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What are the benefits of a PET/CT scan? |
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Cancer |
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PET/CT replaces multiple medical testing procedures with a single examination. |
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PET/CT diagnoses disease often before it shows up by other imaging modalities. |
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PET/CT can determine whether a tumor is benign or cancerous. |
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PET/CT shows all the organ systems of the body in a single exam, so it can indicate whether or not cancer has spread. |
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PET/CT shows the progress of disease and how the body responds to treatment. |
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PET/CT reduces or eliminates ineffective or unnecessary surgical or medical treatments. |
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Physicians use PET/CT images to determine the extent of disease, the effectiveness of chemotherapy, radiation therapy or surgery and possible recurrence. PET/CT scanning can provide early detection of the recurrence of cancer, revealing tumors that might otherwise be obscured by scar tissue that results from surgery and radiation therapy. |
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Cardiology |
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PET/CT allows precise measurement of myocardial perfusion. |
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PET /CT provides more precise measurement of heart function and volumes. |
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Assessment of myocardial viability. |
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Perfusion of Coronary CT Angiography with myocardial perfsion and metabolism in one image. |
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Neurology |
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Most sensitive non-invasive test for the work-up of refractory seizures (Epilepsy) |
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Diagnosis and treatment of mild cognitive impairment and early dementia in elderly patients
(Alzheimer’s disease) |
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How is the PET/CT scan conducted? |
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A small amount of radioactive sugar is injected into your bloodstream. The radioactive sugar circulates in your body while you relax for approximately one hour. You then lie on a bed that slowly passes through the scanner. The PET/CT scan takes approximately 30 minutes. After the scan, you will be on your way. |
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Is a PET/CT scan safe? |
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Yes, the risks associated with PET/CT scanning are minimal. Radioactive sugar, also known as glucose, is short-lived and leaves your body quickly. The radioactive sugar is not a contrast agent. The radiation exposure associated with a PET/CT scan is similar to that associated with conventional imaging exams. 
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What should I do to prepare? |
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Please bring the following to your appointment /referral letter / old record. |
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Please arrive on time for your scheduled appointment in comfortable clothing. The radioactive sugar is very time sensitive and it is important for you to arrive on time in order to ensure an accurate scan. |
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If you are diabetic, please call PET Imaging for special instructions. |
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Do not eat or drink anything except water within 4 hours of your appointment. If your scan is scheduled in the afternoon, you may have a light breakfast early in the morning. |
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Unless you are on fluid restriction, please drink at least 8 glasses of water the day before your scan. |
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Drink 2 glasses of water the morning of your scan. If your scan is scheduled in the afternoon, please drink several additional glasses of water before your scan. |
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Do not perform any vigorous physical activity within 24 hours of your appointment. |
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Your appointment will take approximately 2 hours. Afterward, you may resume normal activities, including driving. |
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Are you on prescribed medications? |
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PET Imaging will contact you prior to your appointment to discuss preparation instructions and prescription medications. If you have any questions regarding specific medications, please call PET Imaging. |
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When will my results be ready? |
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| The images generated by the PET/CT scan combined with a written report from an interpreting physician will be communicated to your physician within 24 hours of your scan. Your physician will share the results with you. Alternatively, you may collect report yourself. |
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| It is important that you follow the above preparation instructions. The accuracy of your PET/CT scan depends on your preparation, which controls your body’s metabolic activity. If you have any questions, or would like to tour PET Imaging prior to your scan, please call us. |
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