PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography & Computerized Tomography)

Operation Theatres

PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography & Computerized Tomography)

A PET-CT scanner is a large machine with a round, donut-shaped hole in the middle. Multiple rings of detectors inside the machine record the energy emissions from the radiotracer in the body. Combined PET/CT scanners perform almost all PET scans today. These combined scans help pinpoint abnormal metabolic activity and may provide more accurate diagnoses than the two scans performed separately.

PET/CT

Positron emission tomography (PET) uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiotracers or radiopharmaceuticals, a special camera and a computer to evaluate organ and tissue functions. By identifying changes at the cellular/molecular level, PET may detect the early onset of disease(cancer) before USG,X-Ray,CT,MRI imaging tests.

It is contraindicated in pregnant or you are breastfeeding women. Nuclear Medicine physician will tell you how to prepare based on the type of your exam. Patients have to discuss any recent illnesses, medical conditions, medications you are taking and allergies – specially to contrast material. Doctor will likely tell you not to eat anything and to drink only water for several hours before your scan. Leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may wear a gown during the exam. Indication of PET-CT Examination: Various Cancer diagnosis, Staging, Restaging and evaluation of response to therapies. It is also used to detect the myocardial viability (Heart Attack) and Sarcoidosis, Alzheimer’s disease & Epilepsy.

MGH

Common uses of the PET-CT procedure

Doctors perform PET and PET/CT scans to:

  • detect cancer and/or make a diagnosis.
  • determine whether a cancer has spread in the body.
  • assess the effectiveness of treatment.
  • determine if a cancer has returned after treatment.
  • evaluate prognosis.
  • assess tissue metabolism and viability.
  • determine the effects of a heart attack myocardial infarction on areas of the heart.
  • identify areas of the heart muscle that would benefit from angioplasty or coronary artery bypass surgery (in combination with a myocardial perfusion scan).
  • evaluate brain abnormalities, such as tumors, memory disorders, seizures and other central nervous system disorders.
  • map normal human brain and heart function.

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