POSITRON EMISSION
TOMOGRAPHY/COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY
(PET/CT) -
View Video
WHAT IS IT?
Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography (PET/CT) is used to more
accurately diagnose and identify cancer, heart disease and brain disorders.
Blood circulates through every organ, transporting oxygen and nutrients to
the organs and removing waste products away from the organs. When a disease
is present, there is usually a change in the blood supply and function of
the affected organ. A PET scan shows the changes in important body
functions, such as blood flow, oxygen use, and sugar (glucose) metabolism
while a CT scan shows the location, size and shape of internal organs. The
combined PET/CT image provides complete information on function and location
of abnormal organs and tissues.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR IT?
Do not eat or drink anything other than water for 6 hours prior to this
test (including no chewing gum, no mints and/or candies). You are encouraged
to drink water during this time and before arriving for the test. If you are
diabetic, you will be given special instructions.
Do not exercise 24 hours prior to this test. No long walks or carrying heavy
items.
You should wear loose comfortable clothing. You should avoid wearing
jewelry. You will be asked to remove your glasses, hearing aids, hairpins or
dental work prior to your exam.
Please bring the following information with you: a list of all present
medications, any surgery you have had in the last year, any diagnostic and
treatment procedures you have had in the last 6 months.
WHAT WILL HAPPEN DURING THE TEST?
Prior to the test, you will be asked to sign a consent form and fill out
a questionnaire. Please read both documents carefully and answer the
questions to the best of your knowledge. If you have any questions about the
test, ask the technologist. He or she can explain the entire procedure
before it begins.
Your blood sugar level will be measured using a glucometer which involves
pricking your finger. You may be asked to drink a solution of concentrated
sugar, if needed, to improve the quality of the images. Your blood sugar
will be re-measured one hour after the drink and a few times throughout the
remainder of the test.
An intravenous will be inserted into your arm which is used to inject the
radioisotope (Flurodeoxyglucose, also known as FDG) into your blood stream.
The FDG radioisotope is carried by the blood stream and will be distributed
throughout your body. The intravenous will be removed after the injection.
You will be asked to empty your bladder prior to imaging.
The technologist will take pictures approximately 60 to 90 minutes after the
injection. You will have to lie down on a special table in the PET
machine which is like a donut that is open at both ends. The technologist
will leave the room to start the imaging process. The technologist will have
you in full view at all times during the test and will be in constant
communication with you via two-way microphone. It takes approximately 20 –
30 minutes to take the pictures and it is important to lie as still as
possible during this time to avoid blurring the images.
A written report will be sent to your physician upon completion of analysis
of the test. Your physician will then explain the test results to you.
ANSWERS TO COMMON QUESTIONS
| Q: |
How long will the test last? |
| A: |
The test lasts approximately 3 hours.
|
| Q: |
How much radiation is involved? |
| A: |
The injection of FDG result in a small amount of radiation exposure to your body that is
comparable to naturally occurring sources (food, air, water, ground and
materials).
|
| Q: |
Will I experience anything from the radiation? |
| A: |
The radiation you receive is not felt, seen, smelled or
tasted, nor does it make you or your clothing radioactive.
|
| Q: |
How long will the FDG stay in the body? |
| A: |
The FDG is almost completely eliminated from the body
within 24 hours. However, negligible amounts may be detected for up to 6
weeks by the sensitive radiation detectors in cross border and airport
securities.
|
| Q: |
What are the risk factors? |
| A: |
The tests are considered to be among the safest
diagnostic tests available.
|
| Q: |
Can I continue taking my medication? |
| A: |
Yes, unless told otherwise by your physician. If you
are diabetic, please follow the instructions given to you by your
physician.
|
| Q: |
Will I be able to travel after the test? |
| A: |
You will be able to drive after the test. Please inform
the technologist if you will be traveling by airplane, train or crossing
the border within six weeks after your test for a letter confirming the
test was performed.
|
| Q: |
Are there any adverse reactions to
radioactivity? |
| A: |
An adverse reaction is extremely rare.
|
| Q: |
Can the test be performed if I am
claustrophobic? |
| A: |
Sedation may be prescribed by the referring physician
to help overcome the claustrophobia. You must bring the medication with
you to take half an hour before imaging. Begins. You must bring someone
who can drive you home.
|
| Q: |
Are there any contraindications? |
| A: |
If you are pregnant or there is a possibility of
pregnancy, or if you are breastfeeding, this test may be inappropriate
for you at this time.
|
|
|
| |
|
F.A.Q.
