PET/CT Scan

A PET/CT scan is a specialized exam combining PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and CT (Computed Tomography) to assess the metabolic activity of cells and provide anatomic localization, respectively. Patient Instruction Sheet for PET/CT

What will I experience during a 18F FDG PET/CT scan?

• You may be asked to drink oral contrast material.
• Your blood glucose level will be checked.
• You will be injected with a small amount of a radiopharmaceutical, 18FDG (radioactive sugar), after which you will rest in a quiet room for approximately 60 minutes.
• You will be asked to remain still during the exam, which lasts from 30 to 45 minutes.
• You may resume your normal activities after the exam. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush any trace amounts of radioactive material from your body.
• There is no danger to other travelers on public transportation following a PET/CT scan. However, some current radiation detectors in public areas such as airports or international borders can be inadvertently activated by even a small amount of radiation. If appropriate, it may be a good idea to obtain a letter from Great Lakes Medical Imaging stating you have undergone a PET/CT scan in case you are questioned.
• A board-certified radiologist will interpret the results of your exam and share these results with your physician. Your physician will discuss the results with you.

DO

• Notify our staff prior to your exam if you are pregnant, may become pregnant, or are currently breastfeeding.
• Wear comfortable clothing that does not contain metal or zippers. It is suggested that you wear warm (layered) clothing, even in the summer months.
• Abstain from eating or drinking four hours prior to exam, except for water and medications.
• Stay hydrated by drinking six to nine glasses of water the day prior to your exam, and continue to drink water up until your exam.
• Eat a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet 24 hours prior to your exam. (Diets should consist of less than five grams of carbohydrates per serving)
• Suggested foods
• Non-starchy vegetables (green leafy vegetables like spinach, broccoli, green beans, zucchini)
• Fish, meat, eggs and cheese
• If you are claustrophobic, you can schedule a time with our staff to look at the machine prior to your exam. You may also ask your physician to prescribe a single dose of relaxant for the day of the exam, if necessary. In this case, please arrange for transportation to and from our office.
• Please allow two full hours in your schedule for your exam.

DO NOT

• Do not wear jewelry, piercings or removable dental work.
• Do not eat high-carbohydrate/sugar foods

Food to Avoid:

• Cereals, pastas, breads and grains
• Peas, corn, rice, potatoes and beans
• All fruits, fruit juices and soda pop
• Candy, mints, cough drops and gum
• Alcoholic beverages and caffeinated drinks
• Do not perform strenuous exercise, work, or cleaning 24 hours prior to your exam.
• Do not bring children or pregnant women with you to the exam.
• If you have diabetes, do not eat for two hours prior to the exam and do not take insulin within four hours of your exam. If you have a blood glucose level of greater than 200 mg/dL, your exam may need to be rescheduled. Consult with your physician with questions or concerns.

To schedule a PET/CT scan, please contact us at (716) 836-4646.

Contact Us

If you have additional questions about the test or the radiation involved, please visit www.radiologyinfo.org.