What is PET/CT?
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and CT (Computed Tomography) are both standard imaging tools that physicians use to help diagnose and treat disease. The PET scan demonstrates the biological function of the body before anatomical changes take place, while the CT scan provides information about the body's anatomy, such as size, shape and location. By combining these two technologies, physicians can more accurately diagnose and identify cancer, heart disease and brain disorders.
Why do I need PET/CT?
PET/CT is a powerful imaging technique that holds great promise in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases, particularly cancer. A non-invasive test, PET/CT accurately images metabolic and anatomic information in the human body in a single scan. This allows your physician to examine your entire body at once. PET/CT provides a more complete picture, making it easier for your doctor to diagnose problems, determine the extent of disease, prescribe treatment, and track progress.
About your scan
A PET/CT scan is completely painless, with no side effects. After fasting approximately four hours, you will receive an intravenous injection of a radioactive glucose. Following the injection, you will rest quietly for approximately 45 minutes while the glucose is distributed throughout the body. After the distribution time is complete, you will then be asked to lie on a table that slowly passes through the scanner. After the organ being studied processes the radioactive tracer and the scanner records the information, a trained radiologist interprets the images. Results are reported to your referring physician usually within 24 hours.
Medicare and most private insurance covers PET/CT scanning for many uses, including breast, lung, colorectal, esophageal, melanoma, lymphoma, thyroid and head and neck cancers. Check with your physician about your insurance coverage.
Preparing for your scan
- Do not eat or drink anything besides water for 4 - 6 hours before your test
- Wear comfortable clothing
- Take any prescribed medication unless instructed otherwise
- Notify your physician if you are pregnant, breast-feeding or diabetic