PET / CT SCAN

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a powerful imaging technique that holds great promise in the diagnosis and treatment of many diseases, particularly cancer. A non-invasive test, PET scans accurately image the cellular function of the human body. In a single PET scan your physician can examine your entire body. PET scanning provides a more complete picture, making it easier for your doctor to diagnose problems.This is done to determine the extent of disease (staging) and assess treatment response

Mithra Scans Pvt.Ltd has a state-of-the art PET/CT – the Siemens Biograph Horizon With premium LSO-based detectors and Time-of-Flight technology, excellent image quality with UltraHD-PET

What should I expect?

The procedure which would involve the administration of a radioactive substance in a small amount following which the patient will be asked to sit in an isolation room for approximately 60-90 minutes. After the waiting period is over, I /the patient will be taken to the scanning room and PET/CT scan will commence and last for approximately 20-30 minutes. I also understand that depending upon the first scan, I/the patient may be asked to wait and undergo additional/delayed scans before being discharged from the PET/CT area. When the PET CT/scan is done, make sure to drink plenty of water or other fluids throughout the day.

Is PET/CT safe?

A PET/CT scan is extremely safe. There are no known side effects and the quantity of radioactive glucose used is low and degrades quickly. Any remaining is eliminated from the body through urine so that no detectable radioactivity is present after several hours. Family members are not at risk for exposure since greater than 90% of the radioactivity has left the body or decomposed before the patient has left the Centre. The important thing to remember is to review the list of items and conditions (e.g. pregnancy, diabetes) that may be a problem prior to your exam and discuss them thoroughly with your physician. You may mix normally with adults but should avoid infants and pregnant women for a further 6 hours.

When will my doctor have the results/report?

Your scan report will be read by one of our doctors within 24 hours and the results, including a CD of your exam, will be made available. Contact your doctor to discuss your PET CT scan result.

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS

• You should not undertake any intense and strenuous physical activity or exercise or 24 hours before the scan appointment.
• You should bring along an adult attendant. Avoid children and pregnant women accompanying you.
• Wear loose and comfortable clothing. Do not wear any metallic objects, jewellery or valuables.
• On the day of the scan, you should carry all your relevant medical records, reports, films, and/or CD of x-rays, CT, MRI, PET-CT or any other investigations done till date on the day of the study. These are important in the interpretation of your scheduled PET-CT scan by the doctor.
• You may be required to remain at the Hospital for at least 4 hours from the scheduled time of appointment for the PET-CT scan

Specific Instructions:

PET/CT whole body:

You should not eat and drink for at least 8 hours before your scheduled appointment. However, you are permitted to drink plain water only.

F18- Fluoride bone scan:

• You need not be fasting at the time of the study.
• Diabetic patients can have breakfast and their anti- diabetic medicines.
• High blood sugar does not interfere with the results of the scan.

F18- PSMA scan:

• You need not be fasting at the time of the study.
• Diabetic patients can have breakfast and their anti- diabetic medicines.
• High blood sugar does not interfere with the results of the scan.

For PET/CT Brain study:

• 12 Hours before your appointment time No caffeine products (coffee, tea, cola drinks), No cigarettes or chewing tobacco.
• You should not eat and drink for at least 6 hours before your scheduled appointment. However you are permitted to drink plain water only.
• Once you receive the isotope/injection you must lie still for about an hour eyes closed. You may not move around or talk to anyone.

For female patients only:

Please inform the staff at the time of appointment if :

• You are pregnant
• You think you may be pregnant or
• You are breast feeding.

For Diabetic patients only:

• You should not have any anti-diabetic medicines (tablets/insulin injections) on the day of study.
• Your fasting blood sugar level must be below 150mg/dl at the scheduled time of your Appointment.
• You may consult your physician to determine the safest way possible to manage your blood sugar level before your scan.