North
Fork Radiology - P.E.T (Positron Emission Tomography)
What
is a PET Scan?
 PET
is a revolutionary diagnostic tool that provides diagnostic information
that no other imaging test can provide. PET works by creating diagnostic
images of the biological functions of the human body to reveal disease
states. To create these images compounds like simple sugars (glucose,
for example) are labeled with signal-emitting tracers and are injected
into the patient. A scanning machine records the signals these tracers
emit as they journey through the human body and collect in the various
organs targeted for examination. A computer reassembles the signals
into images, resulting in pictures, which show normal functioning
organs and tissues as well as portions of the body, which are acute
cancer sites.
How
is PET Different From Other Imaging Modalities?
While
anatomical imaging modalities, like CT and MR are focused on structural
changes, PET evaluates the bio-chemical physiological changes related
to metabolism. Since metabolic changes occur before structural damage
is done to tissues, this is a crucial advantage of PET that allows
detection of disease before other imaging modalities. In most instances,
early detection and appropriate selection of treatment can have
a major impact on the cost as well as the outcome of treatment.
Also,
a single PET scan can give information about the functioning of
the entire body. This can be a crucial advantage in many instances,
especially in oncology, where additional tumors and the spread of
disease are sometimes discovered. The replacement of multiple tests
is also great convenience for the patients and the physicians, as
the extent of disease is established more quickly and with greater
confidence.
How
is a PET Scan Performed?
A
very small amount of radioactive labeled glucose (FDG) is infused
via an IV line started in your arm. You should not feel any side
affects from the material. Most of the radioactivity will be gone
by the time you leave the department. After receiving the injection
you will relax in an easy chair for approximately 45 minutes while
the FDG travels through your body. You will then be placed on a
scanning table (One that resembles a CT Scan) for about an hour.
It is extremely important to lie still throughout the exam.
How
DO I Prepare for a PET Scan?
It
is extremely important to allow your body to reach a state of relaxation
prior to the exam. As such we ask that 24 hours prior to the examination
that you don’t exercise or partake in any activities that
will increase your heart rate. Rest is important. It is necessary
to make certain that your body is fully hydrated. As such 24 hours
prior to the exam you should begin drinking as mush water as possible.
You can urinate as normal. Water may be consumed right up until
test time. You are not allowed to eat for 4 hours prior to the exam.
And you should avoid any products high in sugar. After the exam
is over it is important to continue to drink as much water as possible
for the rest of the day and empty your bladder as often as possible.
This will result in a more rapid clearance of radioactivity from
your body.
PLEASE
BRING YOUR CT/MRI Films with you if they weren’t performed
at North Fork Radiology.
Previous Page |
