Frequently Asked Questions

• What will happen during a PET/CT scan?

  Prior to your exam, our experienced technologists will take a small sample of blood to measure you blood sugar level and place an intravenous line (IV) in your hand or arm. A small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into the IV and you will be asked to rest for 60 minutes while the glucose is distributed throughout your body. The glucose is attracted to cells with increased metabolism.

  During the scan, you will be required to lay flat with your arms over your head while the PET/CT table moves through the scanner. A picture of where glucose is being used in the body is generated, malignant tumor cells show up brighter in the picture because they are more active and take up more glucose than normal cells do.  The scan will take approximately 20-40 min depending on the scan that is ordered. The combined PET/CT scan provides images that pinpoint the anatomic location of abnormal metabolic activity within the body.

  The entire procedure typically takes from two to three hours, depending on the specific type of PET/CT study being performed.

• What are the risks of a PET/CT scan?

  Because the doses of radioactive glucose administered are small, diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures result in relatively low radiation exposure to the patient, acceptable for diagnostic exams. Thus, the radiation risk is very low compared with the potential benefits.

  Allergic reactions to radiopharmaceuticals may occur but are extremely rare and are usually mild.

  Injection of the radiotracer may cause slight pain and redness which should rapidly resolve.

  Women should always inform their physician or radiology technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant or if they are breastfeeding.

• How should I prepare for a PET/CT scan?

  PET/CT scans may be performed in one of our outpatient facilities or as an inpatient in one of our hospitals. Your doctor will give you detailed instructions on how to prepare for your scan.

  A general rule is to avoid strenuous exercise for a couple of days before the study and to stop eating a 6 hours before the scan.

  If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant, please check with your doctor before scheduling the exam.

  It is important to advise your doctor if you have an iodine allergy, a seafood allergy, or have had a bad reaction in the past to a contrast dye used for a CT or X-ray study.

• What happens after the PET/CT scan?

  After the PET/CT scan, you will be instructed to drink plenty of water and empty your bladder frequently. In most cases, you can resume to your normal daily activities unless your doctor instructs you otherwise.

  Your doctor may give you additional or alternate instructions after the procedure, depending on your particular situation.

  One of our board certified radiologists will review the images and send a formal report to your physician.