Information on a Pet Scan

A PET scan, also known as a positron emission tomography scan, can be used by physicians to determine disease, the extent of the disease, and how the body is reacting to treatments. The procedure is sometimes referred to as a nuclear medicine scan.

Preparation

• Typically, a patient must not eat or drink anything at least six hours before the test. All metal objects must be removed before wearing the hospital gown, including jewelry and underwire bras.

Process

• After receiving an injection of radioactive material, the patient lays on a table that slides into the PET scan machine. The machine then takes three-dimensional pictures, which are then transferred to a computer for a physician.

Purpose

• The PET scan is performed for various reasons, but can be used to check brain function, diagnose health problems, including cancer, heart problems and brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, or look for blood flow to the heart.

Risks

• The risks involved with a PET scan are considered minimal. Although radiation is injected into the veins, it dissipates quickly from the body. Women who are pregnant are at a higher risk, as well as those who have a reaction to the radioactive substance.

Uniqueness

• A PET scan varies from other diagnostic imaging tools such as an MRI or CT scans because a PET scan can show how organs and tissues are working.