PET is an acronym for Positron Emission Tomography; CT stands for Computerized Tomography.
A PET-CT scanner merges both technologies into a single machine…a single test. PET-CT is one of the cutting edge procedures used to show the chemical functioning of organs and tissues

PET is a nuclear medicine test that uses special imaging cameras and radioactive drugs to produce pictures of the function and metabolism of the cells in the body. CT is an x-ray test that generates a detailed view of the anatomy or structure of organs and tissues in the body. The PET-CT scan can provide even more-a picture of function (PET), a picture of anatomy (CT), and a merged picture of both: the body's metabolism and structure.

PET-CT is particularly useful for the detection of cancer, coronary artery disease and brain disease. PET imaging is also very accurate in differentiating malignant from benign growth, as well as showing the spread of malignant (cancerous) tumors. As well, PET can also help determine what specific treatment plan would most likely be successful in managing a patients tumor.

Fortunately, preparation for a PET-CT scan is quite simple. The night before the procedure, eat a light meal and do not eat or drink anything the morning of the procedure. During the procedure itself, the PET technologist will inject a radioactive material, lay the patient on a comfortable table that slides into the machine and the technologist will then take a series of pictures. After the procedure a radiologist will review the scan and send the ordering physician a report, which will then interpret the results to you.

PET-CT scanning is a safe and non-invasive diagnostic procedure. Fortunately, with this one single test, it can detect diseases of the body with fewer invasive diagnostic procedures.

For more information on PET-CT please contact our office we would be happy to help.