Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and PET/CT

A PET scan is an imaging test that uses a radioactive tracer to assess how tissues and organs are working at a metabolic level. Unlike an MRI or CT which show anatomy, PET shows the physiology (activity) within the body. It is often used to diagnose and monitor cancer, heart disease and brain disorders.

Prior to your PET scan, you will receive the radioactive substance, called a “tracer,” via an intravenous injection. As the tracer travels through your body, it is absorbed differently by different organs and substances. When you enter the scanner, it takes a series of images that are then used to create detailed, 3-dimensional images of your body’s metabolic activity.

A PET/CT is a machine that combines both a PET scanner and a CT scanner. This can be valuable when both anatomical and metabolic information is needed for a more precise diagnosis.

PET and PET/CT scans are able to detect cancer, the extent of the disease and to monitor treatment. It can help evaluate the flow of blood to the heart and identify damaged tissue after a heart attack. When used to evaluate brain disorders, it can help to diagnose conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease and other neurological diseases and disorders.

How do I prepare for a PET examination?

If you are or think you might be pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, please inform the technologist.
Wear comfortable clothing to your appointment and leave valuables at home.
Avoid all forms of strenuous exercise or physical activity for 24 hours prior to your exam.
Avoid all caffeine and de-caffeinated beverages for 24 hours prior to your exam.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
You may be advised to follow a high protein, low carb/low sugar diet for 24 hours prior to your exam.
Do not smoke or use any nicotine products (including patches) within 12 hours of your exam.
If possible, avoid prolonged contact with young children and pregnant women for at least 8 hours after your PET scan is completed.

What can I expect during my PET or PET/CT examination?

PET scans are performed at our outpatient center. This means that you will return home after the test is complete.
Prior to your test, you may be asked to change into a patient gown.
Please leave all jewelry and valuables at home.
You will be injected with a small amount of radioactive tracer into a vein.
You will wait about 45-60 minutes for the tracer to travel through your body.
During your exam, you will lie on a padded table, which moves in and out of the PET scanner.
After positioning you on the table, the technologist will go to a separate room to control the exam. However, they will have full sight of you through a window and will be able to speak with you and hear you.
Please let the technologist know if you experience any difficulty breathing, start sweating, or have heart palpitations or numbness.
You will be asked to lie still during the procedure.
After the scan, you will be asked to drink plenty of fluids to flush the tracer out of your system.

When can I expect my test results?

A report is typically available within 48 hours of your examination. We encourage you to talk with your doctor, who can review your results with you and answer any questions or concerns.

For more information about PET and PET/CT scans at RadRad or to schedule an appointment please contact us.

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