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How long will it take?
In most cases you will be on the scanner table for about an hour. However, you could be in the department for up to three hours.
Does it hurt?
The scan itself causes no pain. An IV access must be established in your hand or arm in order to infuse the radiolabeled glucose.
What is Positron Emission Tomography?
PET (Positron Emission Tomography) is a powerful diagnostic tool that, in many |
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cases, renders answers that no other imaging tests can provide. This noninvasive procedure helps physicians in their diagnosis and treatment of certain diseases. Biochemical changes are detected by a PET scan after a compound that contains radioactive molecules, bound to a sugar-like substance, is intravenously injected. These molecules provide the tracers that allow the measurement of metabolic activity within the body. A computer records this information and converts it into pictures for diagnostic purposes.
What are the benefits of PET for patients?
* A higher level of detailed diagnostic information
* Shorter time for definitive diagnosis
* Earlier detection of disease
* Precise staging of the disease and better monitoring of cancer recurrences
* More effective tracking of the results of chemotherapy
* May avoid some surgical intervention
* Can contribute to lowering the overall cost of care
During Pregnancy
PET scans should be avoided during pregnancy.
What can I expect from an exam?
The following are explanations of a typical exam. Exams may differ based on the individual patient.
First, a technologist will explain the test and obtain your blood sugar level. If your blood sugar is within normal range, the technologist will obtain IV access and then inject a very small amount of radioactive labeled glucose (FDG).
You will then be asked to sit in a large comfortable reclining lounge chair for 45 minutes while the FDG circulates. You should not sleep during a brain scan because sleep changes the way your brain works. You may want to bring a book. If you are having a whole body scan which does not include a brain scan, you can sleep. Next you will be asked if you need to use the rest room prior to the scan as you will need to lie still for 30 -45 minutes.
During the scan, we ask that you are in a quiet resting state. It is extremely important that you lie still throughout the scan.
How should I prepare?
You are not permitted to eat for 4 hours prior to your appointment. Also refrain from exercising 24 hours prior to your scan. Medications: We will ask what medications you take when you schedule your appointment. You will be provided further instructions at that time. If you feel you will need sedation or are a diabetic, contact the Nuclear Medicine Department for further instructions prior to you scheduled appointment.
What is being injected for the scan?
A very small amount of radioactive labeled glucose (FDG) is infused. The amount of radiation you will receive is about the same as any other radiology procedure (CT Scans or Nuclear Medicine procedures). You should not feel any side effects from the material. Most of the radioactivity will be gone by the time you leave the department.
What will happen after the scan?
It is important that you drink as much fluids as possible for the rest of the day and empty your bladder as often as possible. This will result in a more rapid clearance of radioactivity from your body. You should avoid being around small children for several hours but all other normal activity can resume as normal, unless you have received sedation.
What is the Medicare coverage criteria for approved PET indications?
Trailblazer Health |
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