PET Scan

A PET scan is recommended in cases of clinical suspicion, for prevention, and for the early diagnosis of neoplastic diseases. Beyond that it answers several different questions.

• Early diagnosis

  Clinical suspicion, prevention, and the early diagnosis of neoplastic diseases.

• Tumors

  Identifying and localizing tumors, and detecting metastases.

• Treatment response

  Measuring the effectiveness of a treatment.

• Radiotherapy planning

  Designating the exact location for radiotherapy.

• Beyond oncology

  Other uses including cardiology and infectious diseases.

The scan is done in one visit, and the waiting is the longest part of it.

1. 1

   The injection

   A small amount of radioactive substance is injected into the blood circulation.
2. 2

   An hour of rest

   The patient rests while the substance dissolves in the organism.
3. 3

   Before the scanner

   Patients are asked to empty their bladder, then lie down on the scanner bed.
4. 4

   The scan itself

   Generally around 15 to 35 minutes, depending on the type of machine and the type of scan performed.
5. 5

   Staying still

   It is very important to stay still during the procedure.

Once the procedure is completed, patients can leave the hospital and continue their daily routine. Proper hydration is suggested afterwards, to shorten the time the radiopharmaceutical substances take to leave the body.

Results are provided between 24 and 48 hours later. Shortly after the procedure a written report is provided, and the doctor interprets it to explain what it says about the patient.