PET/CT Imaging Tools
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computerized Tomography (CT) are standard imaging tools which allow physicians to pinpoint the location of cancer within the body before making treatment recommendations. Alone each test has its limitations, combined the PET/CT provides the most complete information on cancer location and metabolic activity. PET/CT offers the following advantages, and a more targeted approach, to disease diagnosis and treatment plans:
- Assist in staging
- Accurately guide biopsies
- Monitor response to treatment
- Target radiation therapy
- Detect early recurrences
- Characterize Pulmonary Nodules
- Assist in early diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Preparing for your PET/CT Appointment
There is very little preparation needed for a PET/CT exam. Typically you will be asked not to eat 4-5 hours prior to the exam but you can drink water. If you’re taking medication, please consult with your physician before the exam. Most medications can be taken the day of the exam.
Please avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours before your appointment. You may be asked to put on a gown for the exam so dress comfortably and expect to change your clothes. Please do not wear any jewelry.
- Consult your physician prior to your PET/CT scan if:
- You are or may be pregnant
- You are diabetic
- You are unsure if you should take your medication
- You have had recent radiation therapy
The Exam
Prior to the exam you will receive a small injection of radioactive sugar (FDG). You will be asked to lay down on a comfortable chair or bed for 30-60 minutes while the FDG travels throughout your body. After this short time, the technologist will assist you to the scanner. The CT portion of the exam is completed first, following by the PET portion of the exam. You may be asked to hold your breath for several seconds while the CT scan is performed. The technologist will tell you if this is needed.
It is important that you don’t move for the duration of the scan. The length of the exam is determined by your height and the clinical area of interest. Most PET/CT scans are typically completed within 45-60 minutes.
After the Exam
Once the total scan has been performed you may resume normal daily activity. Even though the FDG will quickly leave your body, you can expedite the process by drinking plenty of water. The reading physician will contact your doctor to convey all pertinent information gathered from the scan. Please call your physician for the results.
Getting to your Appointment
Please arrive at the Blaisdell Lobby one hour prior to your appointment to allow for registration, consultation, glucose reading and radioisotope injection. Parking is complimentary. You will receive a token after your test is complete. One of our patient representatives will greet you and process your paperwork. Once you are registered, a representative from the PET/CT area will meet you and escort you to the diagnostic area.
To make an Appointment
Appointments are available Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. To schedule a PET/CT appointment, please call 732-530-2525.
For more information about Riverview’s Diagnostic Imaging Center call 732-530-2304 or visit our physician referral page.
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