| PET Scan |
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| PET is a sophisticated new imaging technique that provides a comprehensive
and unique picture of your
body. Using PET, physicians can locate and identify disease, particularly
cancer, often before it is visible through
other imaging procedures. PET can change the way physicians care
for you. We utilize PET/CT Fusion. We have the ability through a
complex computer program to align the CT Scan through a DICOM image
to the PET Scan. This Fusion of these detailed images leads to improved
diagnostic confidence and can reduce the need for biopsies and unnecessary
surgeries. Diagnoses can be made earlier, with greater accuracy
in staging and localization, with more precise treatment and better
patient monitoring. |
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| The PET Scan Test |
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| After you arrive at the PET center and sign in, you will be escorted to
a PET prep room. The PET scan procedure begins with a simple injection
of FDG (flourodeoxyglucose), a tiny dose of material that gives
off signals the scanner picks up. You will be asked to rest quietly
as the FDG circulates throughout your body. You will then be positioned on a scanning bed and scanned.
It is necessary for you to remain still as the images of your body
are obtained. The imaging time varies, but generally takes less
than 40 minutes. Results from your test will be interpreted by a
physician specifically trained in PET. Your physician should receive
the findings within 48 hours, and he or she will discuss them with
you. |
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| Preparing For The Test |
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| Please bring to the PET center prior
CT, MRI and/or PET film, and reports, if applicable, your chemotherapy/radiation
therapy history would be helpful. |
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| Exercise |
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| Do not exercise 1 day prior to the exam.
Your muscles need to be in a relaxed state when having a PET scan. |
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| Eating |
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| Fasting overnight is necessary because
the amount of sugar in the body affects test results. |
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| • Patients, except for diabetics, must
fast overnight, or for at least 6 hours prior to the exam. |
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| • Diabetic patients should not fast and
may eat regular low fat meals and take their usual insulin dose. |
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| • Everyone should drink water before beginning their fast and drink lots
of water during the fast. If you have any questions about your
pre-test preparation, please contact Diagnostic Imaging at BayWalk. |
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