78816 Positron emission tomography (PET) with concurrently acquired computed tomography (CT) for attenuation correction and anatomical localization imaging; whole body

Name of the Procedure:

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) with Concurrently Acquired Computed Tomography (CT) for Attenuation Correction and Anatomical Localization Imaging; Whole Body

Summary

A PET/CT scan is an imaging procedure that combines two techniques: Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography. This combination provides detailed images of metabolic activity in tissues and anatomical structures within the whole body, aiding in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Purpose

PET/CT scans are used to:

• Diagnose and evaluate conditions like cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders.
• Locate areas of abnormal metabolic activity.
• Guide treatment plans by providing detailed anatomical information.

Indications

• Unexplained symptoms such as prolonged pain or swelling.
• Suspicion of cancer or assessment of cancer spread.
• Evaluation of treatment response in cancer patients.
• Investigation of brain disorders like Alzheimer's disease or epilepsy.
• Assessment of heart function and detection of areas with decreased blood flow.

Preparation

• Fast for at least 4-6 hours before the scan.
• Avoid strenuous activity 24 hours prior to the procedure.
• Notify the healthcare provider of any medications being taken.
• Claustrophobic patients should inform the provider as mild sedation might be needed.
• Ensure any necessary diagnostic tests (like blood tests) are completed beforehand.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will be injected with a small amount of a radiotracer, often a form of glucose, called FDG.
2. The patient rests for about an hour to allow the radiotracer to distribute throughout the body.
3. The patient lies down on a table that moves through the PET and CT scanners.
4. The PET scanner detects the radiation emitted by the radiotracer, highlighting areas with high metabolic activity.
5. The CT scanner simultaneously acquires detailed anatomical images.
6. The combined images are processed and evaluated by a radiologist.

Duration

The entire procedure typically takes about 2-3 hours.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital imaging department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Radiologic technologist
• Nurse (if sedation or specific care is needed)

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to a small amount of radiation.
• Allergic reaction to the radiotracer, though rare.
• Discomfort from lying still for an extended period.
• Injection site soreness or bruising.

Benefits

• Provides highly detailed images of both metabolic activity and anatomical structures.
• Helps in precise diagnosis and effective treatment planning.
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort.
• Quick detection and assessment of abnormal tissue function.

Recovery

• Most patients can return to normal activities immediately after the scan.
• Increase water intake to help flush out the radiotracer from the body.
• Follow any specific post-procedure instructions provided by the healthcare team.

Alternatives

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
  • Pros: No radiation exposure, excellent for soft tissue imaging.
  • Cons: Longer scan times, may not detect metabolic activity.
• Ultrasound
  • Pros: No radiation, real-time imaging.
  • Cons: Limited detail, not suitable for all body parts.
• Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT)
  • Pros: Similar nuclear imaging technique.
  • Cons: Lower resolution compared to PET.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients usually feel little to no discomfort, aside from a minor prick during the radiotracer injection.
• Lying still for the scan can be uncomfortable but is necessary for clear images.
• Post-procedure, patients might feel slightly tired but generally resume normal activities promptly.
• Drinking plenty of fluids helps eliminate the radiotracer from the body.