Positron emission tomography (PET) with concurrently acquired computed tomography (CT) for attenuation correction and anatomical localization imaging; skull base to mid-thigh
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with Concurrently Acquired Computed Tomography (CT) for Attenuation Correction and Anatomical Localization Imaging; Skull Base to Mid-Thigh
Summary
A Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan combined with Computed Tomography (CT) is a diagnostic procedure that provides detailed images of the body's tissues and organs from the skull base to mid-thigh. The PET scan detects metabolic activity, while the CT scan provides precise anatomical localization.
Purpose
The PET/CT scan is primarily used to:
- Detect cancer and evaluate its spread.
- Assess the effectiveness of cancer treatment.
- Diagnose heart disease by evaluating blood flow.
- Identify brain disorders such as Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy.
Indications
- Suspected or diagnosed cancer.
- Unexplained weight loss, fever, or pain.
- Monitoring response to cancer therapy.
- Cardiac symptoms like chest pain unresponsive to typical treatments.
- Neurological symptoms suggestive of brain disorders.
Preparation
- Fasting for 4-6 hours before the procedure.
- Staying hydrated with water, unless otherwise instructed.
- Avoiding strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to the scan.
- Informing the healthcare provider of any medications, allergies, or medical conditions.
- Special instructions for diabetic patients regarding insulin and meal timings.
Procedure Description
- Injection of Radiotracer: A small amount of radioactive glucose (FDG) is injected into a vein.
- Waiting Period: About an hour for the radiotracer to distribute throughout the body.
- Scanning: The patient lies on a table that moves through the PET/CT scanner. The CT scan is performed first to provide anatomical details, followed by the PET scan to assess metabolic activity.
- Image Acquisition: The scanner captures combined images, which are then analyzed by a radiologist.
Duration
The entire procedure typically takes between 2 to 3 hours.
Setting
Performed in a hospital radiology department or an outpatient imaging center equipped with a PET/CT scanner.
Personnel
- Radiologist
- Nuclear medicine technologist
- Radiologic technologist
- Nurse (for radiotracer administration and monitoring)
Risks and Complications
- Minimal exposure to radiation.
- Allergic reaction to the radiotracer (rare).
- Discomfort from lying still for an extended period.
- Potential for false-positive or false-negative results requiring further testing.
Benefits
- Early and accurate detection of diseases.
- Precise monitoring of treatment effectiveness.
- Comprehensive imaging combining metabolic and anatomical details.
- Non-invasive with minimal discomfort.
Recovery
- Resume normal activities immediately unless otherwise instructed.
- Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the radiotracer from the body.
- Follow-up appointment to discuss results with the healthcare provider.
Alternatives
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
- Standalone CT scan.
- SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography).
- Each alternative has its pros and cons regarding the specificity, sensitivity, and type of information provided.
Patient Experience
- The injection may cause mild discomfort.
- Need to remain still during scan to avoid blurry images.
- Usually painless but can involve discomfort from holding certain positions for a long time.
- Post-procedure, patients can resume daily activities, and hydration is encouraged to eliminate the tracer from the body efficiently.