How to Prepare for a PET Scan: Tips and Guidelines
How to Prepare for a PET Scan: Tips and Guidelines
A Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan is a powerful imaging test that helps detect cancer, heart disease, brain disorders, and other conditions by highlighting tissue metabolic activity. Proper PET scan preparation is essential to ensure accurate results.
This guide will cover preparing for a PET scan, what to expect during the procedure, and important guidelines for the best imaging results.
Why Preparation Matters for a PET Scan
PET scans use a radioactive tracer that helps visualize how tissues and organs function. Proper preparation is crucial to
✔ Ensure clear images by reducing interference from regular metabolic activity.
✔ Prevent false results caused by recent food intake or certain medications.
✔ Improve comfort and safety during the procedure.
✔ Minimize scan time delays by following the correct pre-scan instructions.
How to Prepare for a PET Scan
1. Follow Fasting Guidelines
✔ Most PET scans require fasting 4-6 hours before the scan.
✔ Water is typically allowed and encouraged to stay hydrated.
✔ Avoid high-carb and sugary foods before the scan, as glucose-based tracers are used.
✔ If you have diabetes, discuss special glucose management instructions with your doctor.
2. Avoid Vigorous Exercise
✔ Refrain from intense physical activity for 24 hours before the scan.
✔ Exercise increases metabolic activity, affecting glucose uptake and scan accuracy.
✔ Avoid strenuous activities like running, weightlifting, or high-impact workouts.
3. Wear Comfortable Clothing
✔ Wear loose-fitting, metal-free clothing (no zippers, buttons, or jewelry).
✔ You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for the procedure.
✔ Remove metal accessories like earrings, belts, and underwire bras to avoid interference.
4. Medication & Health Considerations
✔ Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.
✔ Certain medications like insulin or steroids may affect scan results.
✔ Let the medical team know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as precautions may be necessary.
✔ If you have claustrophobia or anxiety, discuss sedation options with your doctor.
5. Plan for the Scan Duration
✔ The entire process, including preparation, can take 2-3 hours.
✔ Expect to rest quietly for 30-60 minutes after the tracer injection before scanning begins.
✔ The scan lasts 20-45 minutes, depending on the examined area.
What to Expect During a PET Scan
Step 1: Tracer Injection
✔ A small amount of radioactive tracer (FDG) is injected into a vein.
✔ You must sit or lie still for 30-60 minutes while the tracer circulates.
✔ The tracer is absorbed by tissues, with cancerous or high-metabolism cells absorbing more.
Step 2: The Scanning Process
✔ You will lie on a movable table that slides into the PET scanner.
✔ The machine detects radiation from the tracer and creates detailed images.
✔ The scan is painless but requires staying still to avoid blurry images.
✔ You may hear whirring or clicking sounds as the machine operates.
Step 3: Post-Scan Guidelines
✔ You can resume normal activities unless instructed otherwise.
✔ Drink plenty of water to help flush out the tracer from your body.
✔ Avoid close contact with pregnant women and infants for several hours due to residual radiation. ✔ A radiologist will review the results, and your doctor will discuss the findings.
Special Considerations for Different PET Scans
Different PET scans may have unique preparation requirements:
✔ PET-CT Scan – This may require an additional contrast dye, and fasting instructions may vary.
✔ Brain PET Scan – Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and unnecessary medications before the scan.
✔ Cardiac PET Scan – Your doctor may adjust beta-blockers or heart medications before the procedure.
✔ Oncology PET Scan – Some cancer patients may need to stop chemotherapy or radiation treatments for a period before the scan.
Always follow personalized instructions provided by your healthcare team.
Are There Any Risks with a PET Scan?
✔ Low Radiation Exposure – The tracer quickly leaves your body within 24 hours.
✔ Minimal Side Effects – Most patients experience no discomfort beyond the IV injection.
✔ Rare Allergic Reactions – Inform your doctor if you have previous reactions to contrast dyes.
✔ Not Suitable for Pregnant Women – Due to radiation exposure, alternative imaging options may be recommended.
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Proper PET scan preparation ensures accurate results and a smooth experience. Following fasting instructions, avoiding exercise, and wearing comfortable clothing can help your doctor obtain the best possible imaging results.
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