Name of the Procedure:

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Imaging; Whole Body

Summary

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging is a whole-body scan that helps visualize the metabolic activity within the body. This non-invasive test uses a small amount of radioactive tracer to detect abnormalities such as cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders.

Purpose

The PET scan is designed to:

• Diagnose and stage various types of cancer.
• Assess the effectiveness of ongoing treatment.
• Evaluate brain abnormalities and neurological conditions.
• Detect heart diseases and determine the extent of heart damage.

Indications

• Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or persistent pain.
• Symptoms suggestive of cancer or metastasis.
• Assessment of brain abnormalities like Alzheimer's disease or epilepsy.
• Evaluation of coronary artery disease or cardiac ischemia.

Preparation

• Fast for at least 4-6 hours before the scan; only water is usually allowed.
• Avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to the test.
• Discuss all current medications with your doctor.
• Undergo any required blood tests to check kidney function.

Procedure Description

1. Administration of a radioactive glucose tracer through an intravenous (IV) line.
2. Patient rests for approximately 30-60 minutes while the tracer distributes throughout the body.
3. The patient lies on a scanning table that moves through a PET scanner, which captures detailed images.
4. The entire scanning process typically takes about 20-30 minutes.

Duration

The entire procedure lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, including preparation and actual scanning.

Setting

PET imaging is performed in a hospital's radiology department or an outpatient diagnostic clinic specialized in nuclear medicine.

Personnel

• Radiologist or nuclear medicine specialist
• Technologist operating the PET scanner
• Nurses or medical assistants for IV insertion

Risks and Complications

• Minimal radiation exposure, considered safe for most patients.
• Allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer (rare).
• Discomfort or pain at the IV site.

Benefits

• Provides detailed images to detect diseases at an early stage.
• Non-invasive and generally well-tolerated.
• Helps in planning effective treatment strategies.
• Fewer false-negative results compared to other imaging modalities.

Recovery

• Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
• Drink plenty of fluids to help flush the radioactive tracer from the body.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the healthcare team.

Alternatives

• CT (Computed Tomography) scans: Detailed structural images but less effective in showing metabolic activity.
• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Great for soft tissue contrast but doesn't provide metabolic information.
• SPECT (Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography): Similar to PET, but generally has lower resolution.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel slight discomfort from the IV needle. While lying still in the scanner, some may find it relaxing while others might experience mild anxiety or claustrophobia. After the procedure, patients typically feel normal, with no significant side effects.