Member Services: PET Scan

What is a PET Scan?
PET (Positron emission tomography) is a nuclear medicine procedure that produces pictures of the body's biological functions. The patient is given a low-level radioactive material and an organic chemical. The scan shows the distribution of the radioactive material and what is happening in targeted organs. PET is a unique diagnostic imaging modality that is capable of detecting certain diseases. 

Why do I need a PET scan?
Pet scans are successful because they show the internal chemistry and functions of the body. The exam detects chemical and metabolic changes in disease states, such as cancer, before the changes have time to develop. A PET scan can help diagnose the following:

• Early coronary artery disease
• Damaged or dead heart muscle
• The effect of drugs on the heart and brain
• Early brain changes and diseases
• Abnormal tissue or tumors
• Shifts in blood distribution
• Areas affected by a stroke or blood clot
• Causes of mental disorders

How do I prepare?
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything four to six hours before the exam. Depending on the medical reason for the scan, other preparations may also be needed. During the exam itself, you should wear comfortable clothes. A patient with known allergies should discuss this with a doctor before undergoing the PET scan.

During the exam:
During the procedure, a small amount of radioactive material will be injected into a vein. You will then be asked to lie on a table that passes slowly through the scanner. Every PET exam is different, but most patients can expect it to last anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. 

After the exam:
As soon as the scans have been reviewed for clarity, you will be allowed to go home. Unless your doctor advises otherwise, you may resume normal diet and activities immediately.

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