What is a PET-CT scan?

PET‐CT technology is a major development in cancer detection and an accurate and cost effective way to monitor response to therapy.

PET stands for “Positron Emission Tomography”.

It is an advanced imaging technique that uses very small amounts of radioactive tracer called “FDG” (similar to sugar), to produce images showing how your body is functioning.

You may already be familiar with CT (Computed Tomography), which uses x-rays to produce pictures showing structures in the body.

By combining these two techniques in one scanner, a PET‐CT scan provides important information that can help your doctor plan the best treatment for you.

Preparation

Please ensure the following steps are followed. They will serve to prepare you for your examination and/or procedure.

• Appointment required for this examination
• If you are diabetic please let our staff know when we confirm your appointment, as this may affect the time of your appointment
• Preparation is required to ensure the scan is successful
• You must fast for 6 hours prior to your exam. You may empty your bladder as normal. Drink one litre of water in the hour before your exam

  PET-CT Patient Information Video