PET scans, or positron emission tomography, utilize a dye that contains radioactive tracers to take detailed images of your body and to look for internal abnormalities.

What is a PET scan for? 

Doctors often order PET scans to screen for evidence of cancers, heart or brain abnormalities, or other conditions.

How long does a PET scan take? 

These painless scans typically take 30-45 minutes to complete.

Protocols are the details and plans that describe how a specific procedure will be performed. For PET scans, this usually refers to whether or not the PET scan will be performed in conjunction with a CT scan.   

If you already have a referral, the type of protocol you need should be written directly on it. If you don’t have a referral, you can book one through Tripment Health. 

With CT scan – This protocol is for a PET scan that also includes a CT scan. CT scans use X-rays to take pictures of your body and put them together to create a 3D picture. Combining PET and CT scans can create a much more detailed and reliable picture of what’s going on inside your body. 

Without CT scan – CT scans use X-rays to take pictures of your body and put them together to create a 3D picture. Combining PET and CT scans can create a much more detailed and reliable picture of what’s going on inside your body. However, this protocol is for a PET scan only.

Metabolic evaluation – PET scans can show metabolic changes and activity levels. Areas of high metabolic activity could indicate cancer, whereas areas of low or no metabolic activity could indicate blockages. 

Perfusion, multiple studies at rest and/or stress – Perfusion PET scans are performed to show how well blood flows to the heart. This can be used to diagnose heart disease. 

Perfusion, single study at rest and/or stress – Perfusion PET scans are performed to show how well blood flows to the heart. This can be used to diagnose heart disease.

PET scans, or positron emission tomography, utilize a dye that contains radioactive tracers to take detailed images of your body and to look for internal abnormalities. Doctors often order PET scans to screen for evidence of cancers, heart or brain abnormalities, or other conditions.

How do I prepare for a PET scan? 

Your provider will likely ask you to refrain from consuming carbohydrates and sugars (such as those found in cereals, pasta, bread, fruit, honey, etc.) for 48 hours before your scan. Your doctor will give you a list of foods and drinks to avoid to help you prepare. For the 6 hours leading up to your procedure, you may be asked to fast and only drink water.