PET/CT simultaneously images and combines the results of two state-of-the-art scanner technologies into a single exam: the highly sensitive PET scan picks up actively growing cancer cells, and the CT scan provides a detailed picture of the inside of your body to reveal the size and shape of abnormal cancerous growths.

At this time, PET/CT is one of the most powerful tools in cancer diagnosis and staging. However, PET/CT can provide important information about some neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer’s Disease as well.

To find out if the center nearest you offers this exam, go to the where we are section of our site.

Does insurance cover PET/CT?
Yes, many PET/CT procedures are covered by both Medicare and private insurance companies. However, we recommend that you contact your insurance provider directly.

Preparation

• A CDI representative will call you prior to your appointment to provide specific instructions, and review health and insurance information.
  
• Refrain from strenuous exercise 24 hours before your exam.
  
• Drink plenty of fluids the day before your exam; try to drink 48 ounces.
  
• Do not eat or drink anything except water for 6 hours before your exam. Also, please do not chew gum.
  
• If you are diabetic, inform your physician and contact CDI for special instructions.
  
• Continue to take your medications, with water, unless instructed not to do so by your physician.
  
• Please bring all of your previous films/radiology studies (e.g., CT, MRI, bone scan, ultrasound, or PET) with you.
  
• Wear warm, comfortable clothing.
  
• Let us know if you might be pregnant or are currently breastfeeding.
  
• Please arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration.

During the exam – what to expect

• A PET/CT scan is painless and has no side effects.
  
• The PET/CT scan should last 20 - 45 minutes. Typically, you will be at our center for at least two hours.
  
• Once you arrive, you will receive an I.V. in your arm or hand for an injection of a small amount of radioactive glucose, which is distributed throughout the body.
  
• About 30-70 minutes after the injection, you will empty your bladder, then lie down on a comfortable scanner bed.
  
• The table will move slowly through the donut-shaped PET/CT scanner as it acquires the information needed to generate diagnostic pictures.
  
• You will be asked to lie very still and breathe normally during the scan because movement can interfere with the results.
  
• A CDI technologist will monitor you during the exam and answer your questions.

After the exam – what to expect

• You may leave us as soon as the exam is complete.
  
• Unless you have received special instructions, you will be able to eat and drink immediately.
  
• Drinking a lot of fluid soon after the exam will help remove any of the radioactive sugar that may still be in your system.
  
• A radiologist who specializes in a specific area of the body will review your images (i.e., a body radiologist will review images of your abdomen).
  
• Your physician will receive a report and pictures detailing the findings from your exam and will follow up with you.

If you have additional questions about your appointment or our services check out our Frequently Asked Questions or contact your local CDI center.