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

1. Injection of Radiotracer: A small amount of radioactive glucose (FDG) is injected into a vein.
2. Waiting Period: About an hour for the radiotracer to distribute throughout the body.
3. 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.
4. 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.