A PET scan/CT scan is an imaging technique that combines positron emission tomography (PET) and computerized tomography (CT) to create clear images of the organs and tissues of the body, which can help accurately diagnose and stage many illnesses, particularly types of cancer. The preparation for a PET/CT scan usually consists of diet restrictions, adjustments to medications, and sometimes other precautions depending on individual circumstances. Positrons are tiny particles released from a radio-isotope administered to the patient.
Patient Safety Information: Before your Examination?
Please inform us of any allergies or reactions to medications or antibiotics. Please refrain from bringing valuables; leave them at home or in your hospital room. Please inform us if you would like interpreting services. We will help facilitate this for you.
Preparation For The PET/CT Scan Procedure?
Do not eat or drink anything except water for 6 hours prior to the exam, though as much water as you want to drink until you arrive is ok. Feel free to take your routine medications unless you were otherwise instructed. You can take your diabetes medication at least 4 hours before the exam if you are diabetic.
What Are The Steps?
- An IV will be started, and you will receive an injection of a tracer.
- After the tracer has been injected, you will sit quietly for approximately 30 minutes to one hour, this is because it takes that long for your body to absorb the tracer.
- You do not have to sit completely still, but you should minimize movement and talking. If you move too much, the tracer may move in the wrong places in your body.
What Can I Expect Before a PET/CT Scan?
Not much is needed for preparation for PET/CT scans. A nuclear medicine technologist will call you to discuss your scan in detail, but in general you want to avoid heavy exercise for a few days before If the test is for a cardiac reason, you cannot have any caffeine for 24 hours before your actual scan time.
It’s normal to feel some anxiety for any test even if its your first test or your twentieth. Just remember the scans are safe and your provider will be available if you feel scared or concerned at any point.
Conclusion
Positron emission tomography (PET scan) is also a test that can give information on the metabolic or biochemical function of the organs and tissues of the body. A PET scan involves the use of an injectable radioactive medicine, referred to as a tracer, which displays normal and diseased activity. PET scans can actually normally identify the abnormal metabolism of the drug used before it is depicted in other imaging techniques, including computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What are the safety precautions for a PET CT scan?
Safety measures before a PET/CT scan include dietary restrictions, keeping away from heavy exercise, removal of metal items, and letting the medical team know about any allergies or medical conditions.
Q. What preparation is needed before a PET scan?
The patient can drink as much water as he or she would like until arrival, this will be helpful.
Q. How long should I avoid people after a PET scan?
The results of a PET scan should provide reassurance as well. You should avoid contact with pregnant women, newborns and small children for 6 hours just to be cautious.
Q. What injection is given before PET CT?
Typically, a patient will receive an intravenous bolus of a radioactive tracer, usually fludeoxyglucose (FDG), before a PET/CT scan.
Q. Which blood test is required before PET CT?
“serum creatinine blood test”
Q. How to find the best imaging centre near me in Delhi NCR?
You can just type the best imaging centre near me on Google or directly contact carebox for consultation.
