Positrom Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography, also called PET Imaging or a PET Scan, is a type of nuclear medicine imaging. Nuclear medicine is a branch of medical imaging that uses small amounts of radioactive material to determine the severity of a variety of diseases. Because nuclear medicine procedures are able to pinpoint molecular activity within the body, they offer the potential to identify disease in its earliest stages, as well as a patient’s immediate response to therapeutic intervention.
The CT scanner is a machine with a hole, or tunnel, in the center. You will lie on a table which slides into and out. You may be asked to hold your breath during scanning; this helps eliminate motion providing a better image. The x-ray tube and electronic x-ray detectors which are located inside the tunnel rotate around you. A CT examination usually takes five minutes to half an hour.
You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing for your CT exam. Metal objects can affect the image, so avoid clothing with zippers and snaps. You may be asked to remove hairpins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any removable dental work that could obscure the images. You also may be asked to refrain from eating anything for up to four hours before the exam. Women should always inform their doctor, scheduler, or x-ray technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
****You may take any necessary medications prior to your exam with a small amount of clear liquid, if your medication requires food be taken with it, please contact us prior to your exam*****