Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) Scan
What is positron emission tomography (PET)?
Using body metabolism and cellular activity, positron emission tomography (PET) provides a unique way to identify diseases like cancer, heart conditions and neurological disorders. PET stands apart by capturing the biochemical and physiological changes happening at the cellular level, enabling quicker detection and more precise diagnoses compared to other imaging techniques. It also helps guide treatment decisions and monitors how well treatments are working over time.
Hybrid technology enhances diagnosis and treatment
- Get clear answers — PET/CT scans combine detailed images with advanced metabolic insights, helping doctors diagnose conditions with precision and accuracy.
- Simplify your care — complete two powerful imaging tests in one quick, comfortable procedure that fits seamlessly into your schedule.
- Support your health journey — from detecting cancer to monitoring heart and brain activity, PET/CT provides essential information to guide effective treatment plans.
About cardiac PET CT
By measuring the blood flow to your heart, this test allows doctors to determine whether treatment is required or to assess how well your current treatment is working.
How do PET scans work?
In a PET scan, a small amount of a short-lived radioactive tracer is injected into the patient via a sugar solution. This material discharges positively-charged particles, or positrons, which when absorbed by cells can be traced to reveal the locations of high metabolic activity. A camera picks up the tracer's signals, and a computer converts them into precise, three-dimensional pictures of these cells.
How does my health care provider use PET scans to diagnose and treat me?
PET scanning gives physicians the ability to actually see the chemical changes that are occurring inside a cell. Whereas other conventional imaging techniques show only body anatomy and structure, PET images reveal the chemical functioning of an organ or tissue-crucial information that helps doctors determine the best courses of treatment.
Why are PET images combined with CT scans?
For even more insight and understanding, these PET images can be combined with images obtained from computerized tomography (CT) scans, which show great anatomical detail, giving physicians the most complete picture possible of a disease — a study of both form and function.
What can I expect the day of my appointment
The PET scan is completely painless and safe, using the same amount of radiation as a routine X-ray. To begin your procedure, a small amount of radioactive glucose is injected into a vein in your arm. The tracer is not a medication or a dye so you will not feel any differently from the injection or have any reaction. After the injection, you will wait approximately one hour while the injected material is distributed throughout your body.
Scan time will be 10-20 minutes.
How can I prepare for my appointment?
Please follow the preparation instructions provided to you at time of scheduling. Please try to arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your appointment. Please bring a copy of your physician’s order script and insurance card to your exam. Results from your PET/CT scan will be available to your physician within 48 hours of the exam.
What if I need to cancel my appointment?
The PET/CT isotope is specially ordered for you and your particular study 24 hours before your exam. Therefore, should you cancel your appointment, it is important that you call us at least 24 hours in advance.
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