How does a PET scan work step by step?
How does PET work? PET works by using a scanning device (a machine with a large hole at its center) to detect photons (subatomic particles) emitted by a radionuclide in the organ or tissue being examined.
What is PET in scanning?
A positron emission tomography (PET) scan is an imaging test that can help reveal the metabolic or biochemical function of your tissues and organs. The PET scan uses a radioactive drug (tracer) to show both normal and abnormal metabolic activity.
What are the rules for a PET scan?
48 Hours Before Your Appointment. Do not do any strenuous exercise or deep-tissue massage.
How are PET scan images formed?
A radiopharmaceutical — a radioisotope attached to a drug — is injected into the body as a tracer. Gamma rays are emitted and detected by gamma cameras to form a three-dimensional image, in a similar way that an X-ray image is captured. PET scanners can incorporate a CT scanner and are known as PET-CT scanners.
What is the difference between CT scan and PET scan?
A CT scan shows detailed pictures of the organs and tissues inside your body. A PET scan can find abnormal activity and it can be more sensitive than other imaging tests. It may also show changes to your body sooner. Doctors use PET-CT scans to provide more information about the cancer.
Is a PET scan better than an MRI?
MRI scans, note that both can detect diseases and abnormalities. However, PET scans can show how your body performs at the cellular level. On the other hand, PET scans include radiation. MRI scans don’t expose you to harmful radiation, which can be preferable for certain patients and annual scans.
Do you have to take your clothes off for a PET scan?
Specific protocols may vary, but generally a PET scan follows this process: You will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the scan. If you are asked to remove clothing, you will be given a gown to wear.
Who reads a PET scan?
After the test is done, a doctor who specializes in looking at the test results will look at your scan. This person is a nuclear medicine specialist or a radiologist. They will decide what the results mean. PET-CT scans can be done at a hospital or a center that does imaging tests.