Name of the Procedure:

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Imaging; Limited Area
Common name(s): PET scan
Technical term: Positron Emission Tomography Imaging

Summary

A PET scan is a non-invasive imaging procedure that helps visualize how your tissues and organs are functioning using a special dye containing radioactive tracers. The scan is focused on a limited area of the body, such as the chest or head/neck.

Purpose

PET imaging helps diagnose and monitor various medical conditions, including cancer, brain disorders, and heart disease. The goal is to detect abnormalities at a cellular level, providing an early and accurate diagnosis which aids in planning treatment strategies.

Indications

• Unexplained chest pain or abnormalities seen in other imaging tests
• Suspected or known cancers (e.g., lung, lymphoma)
• Assessment of heart muscle viability
• Evaluation of neurological conditions like Alzheimer's disease or epilepsy

Preparation

• Fasting for at least 4-6 hours prior, except water.
• Avoid strenuous activity 24 hours before the procedure.
• Inform the doctor about any medications, especially diabetes medications.
• Possible blood tests to check glucose levels.

Procedure Description

1. A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into a vein.
2. The patient rests for about 30-60 minutes as the tracer circulates and gets absorbed by the tissues.
3. The patient lies on a flat table that slides into the PET scanner.
4. The scanner detects gamma rays emitted by the tracer and creates detailed images.
5. The technologist monitors the procedure from an adjacent room.

Tools/Equipment: PET scanner, radioactive tracer injection Anesthesia: Not usually required, but sedation may be used for claustrophobic patients.

Duration

Typically takes about 2-3 hours from start to finish, including preparation and imaging time.

Setting

Performed in a hospital or outpatient imaging center equipped with a PET scanner.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Technologist specialized in PET imaging
• Nursing staff for pre and post-procedure care
• Sedation or anesthesia team if needed

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to a low level of radiation
• Allergic reactions to the tracer (rare)
• Claustrophobia during the scan
• Infiltration of the tracer outside the vein

Benefits

• Provides early detection and precise information about diseases.
• Helps tailor specific treatment plans.
• Non-invasive with minimal side effects.
• Immediate imaging results available for rapid diagnosis.

Recovery

• No special recovery process required.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out the tracer.
• Normal activities can usually be resumed immediately.
• Follow-up with a physician to discuss scan results.

Alternatives

• CT Scan: Less detailed for function but provides structural images.
• MRI: Good for structural imaging, especially of soft tissues.
• Ultrasound: Non-radiating but limited by tissue density.
• SPECT scan: Similar but less detailed functional imaging compared to PET.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, the patient might feel a mild sting from the tracer injection. Remaining still during the scan might cause discomfort for some. Afterward, patients can usually resume their daily activities, with hydration recommended to clear the tracer from the body. Pain is minimal, and the experience is generally well-tolerated.