Common Questions About PET Scans Answered
Common Questions About PET Scans Answered
If you’ve been scheduled for a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, having questions is natural. Understanding the process, preparation, and what to expect can help reduce anxiety and ensure a smooth experience.
In this guide, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about PET scans to help you feel more informed and confident.
What is a PET Scan?
A PET scan is a non-invasive imaging test that helps doctors evaluate how tissues and organs function. It uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to highlight areas of high metabolic activity, which can indicate conditions like cancer, heart disease, or brain disorders.
✔ PET scans are often combined with CT scans (PET-CT) to provide detailed anatomical and functional information.
✔ They are commonly used to detect tumors, assess brain function, and monitor treatment progress.
Why is a PET Scan Performed?
Doctors may order a PET scan to
✔ Detect cancerous tumors and determine if they have spread.
✔ Evaluate the effectiveness of cancer treatments.
✔ Identify neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's or epilepsy.
✔ Assess heart function and detect areas with reduced blood flow.
✔ Diagnose infections or inflammation in the body.
How Should I Prepare for a PET Scan?
✔ Fasting – Avoid eating for 4-6 hours before the scan. Water is typically allowed.
✔ Avoid Exercise – Refrain from vigorous activity for 24 hours before the scan.
✔ Medication Review – Inform your doctor about all medications, especially if you are diabetic.
✔ Clothing – Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing and remove jewelry.
✔ Medical History – Inform the technician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have allergies.
Proper preparation helps ensure accurate imaging results.
What Happens During a PET Scan?
Tracer Injection – You’ll receive an injection of a radioactive tracer, often a glucose-based substance (FDG).
Waiting Period – You will rest for about 30-60 minutes as the tracer circulates and is absorbed by tissues.
The Scan – You’ll lie on a table that moves into the PET scanner. The scan is painless but requires you to remain still.
Scan Duration – The scan itself typically takes 20-45 minutes.
Is a PET Scan Painful?
✔ No, a PET scan is painless. The only discomfort may come from the injection of the tracer, which feels like a regular blood draw.
✔ Lying still for an extended period may be uncomfortable for some, but the scan itself is non-invasive and painless.
Are There Any Risks with a PET Scan?
✔ PET scans involve minimal radiation exposure, which is generally considered safe.
✔ The radioactive tracer leaves your body within 24 hours through urine.
✔ Rare side effects include mild nausea, headache, or allergic reactions. ✔ Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have allergies.
How Long Does a PET Scan Take?
✔ The entire process, from preparation to completion, usually takes 2-3 hours.
✔ The scan takes about 20-45 minutes, but additional time is required for the tracer to circulate and absorb.
Can I Eat or Drink After a PET Scan?
✔ Yes, you can eat and drink normally after the scan.
✔ It is recommended to drink plenty of water to help flush the tracer from your system. ✔ Avoid close contact with pregnant women and infants for several hours after the scan.
When Will I Get My PET Scan Results?
✔ A radiologist reviews the images; results are usually available within 1-3 days.
✔ Your doctor will schedule a follow-up appointment to discuss the results and next steps.
How Accurate is a PET Scan?
✔ PET scans accurately detect cancer, assess brain disorders, and evaluate heart conditions.
✔ However, some results may need to be confirmed with additional tests like biopsies or MRIs.
✔ PET scans are particularly effective when combined with CT or MRI imaging.
Will I Need More Than One PET Scan?
✔ It depends on the condition being monitored.
✔ Cancer patients may need multiple scans to track treatment progress.
✔ Additional scans may be required if an abnormality is detected and needs further investigation.
Can I Drive Home After a PET Scan?
✔ Yes, most patients can drive themselves home after the procedure.
✔ If you received sedation (rare in PET scans), you may need someone to drive you.
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