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PET/CT

What are Positron Emission Tomography and Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography?

Positron emission tomography, also called a PET scan, is a nuclear medicine exam that produces a three dimensional image of functional processes in the body. A PET scan uses a small amount of a radioactive drug to show differences between healthy and diseased issue. The diagnostic images produced by PET are used to evaluate a variety of diseases.

What is PET/CT(Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography) PET/CT is a more commonly used hybrid scan. It combines two different scan types performed at the same time and in the same position. Positron emission tomography, also called a PET scan, is a nuclear medicine exam that produces a three dimensional image of functional processes in the body. A PET scan uses a small amount of a radioactive drug to show metabolic differences between healthy and diseased issue. Computed tomography, also called a CT scan, is a sophisticated x-ray examination that creates a three dimensional anatomical view of the body. The diagnostic images produced by the PET/CT are used to evaluate a variety of diseases. The combined study is more sensitive and more specific than each study alone in detecting and evaluating disease.

What are some common uses of PET and PET/CT?

to detect and evaluate cancer.
to evaluate the heart for:
- blood flow.
- signs of coronary artery disease.
- heart function.
to evaluate the brain for:
- memory disorders.
- brain tumors.
- seizure disorders.

How should I prepare for this procedure?

PET is usually done on an outpatient basis. You should:

wear comfortable clothes.
refrain from vigorous exercise 24 hours prior to your scan.
not eat for four to six hours before your scan.
drink plenty of water.
consult with your doctor regarding the use of medications before the test, particularly if you have diabetes.

What should I expect during this exam?

You receive an intravenous (IV) injection of the radioactive substance.
The radioactive substance will then take approximately 30 to 90 minutes to travel through your body and be absorbed by the tissue under study. During this time, you will be asked to rest quietly and avoid significant movement or talking, which may alter the localization of the administered substance and change the results of the test.
You will be positioned on the PET scanner table and be asked to lie still during your exam.
Scanning takes 30 to 45 minutes.
Some patients, who are being evaluated for heart disease, may undergo a stress test in which PET scans are obtained while they are at rest, and again after undergoing the administration of a pharmaceutical to alter the blood flow to the heart.
Usually, there are no restrictions on daily routine after the test. You should drink plenty of fluids to flush the radioactive substance from your body.

What will I experience during the procedure?

If given an intravenous injection, you will feel like a slight prick. However, you will not feel the substance in your body.
You will be made as comfortable as possible on the exam table before you are positioned in the PET scanner for the test.
You will hear buzzing or clicking sounds during the exam.
Patients who are claustrophobic may feel some anxiety while positioned in the scanner. Please consult our office for appropriate accommodations.
Some patients find it uncomfortable to hold still in one position for more than a few minutes.