Radiology Procedures
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PET/CT Exam
PET/CT combines two of the most advanced diagnostic tools ever developed - the PET (positron emission tomography) scan and the CT (computed tomography) scan. The PET scan detects changes in a person's cellular function, enabling doctors to make an early diagnosis. The CT scan uses X-rays and computers and gives doctors a non-invasive way to see inside the body.
MeritCare has the only in-house PET/CT in North Dakota and its believed to be one of less than 200 PET/CT scanners in the world.
What is the PET/CT used for?
The scanner helps doctors better understand the extent and the exact location of cancer, which helps them diagnose and treat the disease earlier and more accurately. Currently, the PET/CT scans are used to diagnose lung, breast, head/neck, colon, lymphoma, melanoma, esophageal and thyroid cancer. In the future, it may be used to treat patients with heart disease, Alzheimer's and epilepsy.
What Do I Need to Do to Prepare for the Exam?
- Do not eat or drink anything except water (don't even chew gum) for 6 hours prior to your exam because it could interfere with the results.
- If you take medications, drink only enough plain water to swallow them.
- If you have been advised not to take your medication on an empty stomach, eat nothing more than a few soda crackers within 6 hours of your exam.
- If you are diabetic, please inform your PET/CT Exam technologist so that he/she may work with your physician to determine the safest way for you to prepare for the exam.
- Please let your technologist know if you might be pregnant or are currently breastfeeding.
What Should I Expect When I Arrive For the Exam?
When you arrive for your exam, your history and past exams will be reviewed. For the PET/CT exam, you will receive a radiopharmaceutical injection that will take 30 minutes to an hour to distribute itself. During this time, you will be asked to relax. During the scan, you will lie on a padded table that will move through the tube-shaped PET/CT scanner as it takes the diagnostic images. You will be asked to lie as still as possible because movement can interfere with results. You may hear noises as images are being taken, but you will not feel anything unusual. The technologist will monitor you during the exam.
How Long Will the Exam Last?
The PET/CT scan will last between 35 and 45 minutes. The exam may vary depending on your doctor. Plan to be there for two or three hours.
What Will Happen After the Exam?
You may leave as soon as the exam is complete. Unless you receive special instructions, you will be able to eat and drink right after the exam. Drinking fluids will help remove any of the radiopharmaceuticals that may still be in your system. The analysis of your exam will be prepared and then your doctor will inform you of the results.
How Safe Are the PET/CT Exams?
The PET/CT exams are safe and effective. The radiopharmaceuticals used do not remain in your body long.