Name of the Procedure:

Commonly known as a PET scan with FDG. Medically referred to as a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan using Fluorodeoxyglucose F-18.

Summary

In layman's terms, this procedure involves injecting a small amount of radioactive sugar (FDG) into the body to help visualize certain tissues or organs in a PET scan. The scan helps doctors see how your tissues and organs are functioning.

Purpose

This procedure is used for diagnosing and managing various conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders. It helps doctors understand how different parts of your body are functioning and detect any abnormalities.

Indications

• Unexplained symptoms such as persistent pain or weight loss.
• Diagnosing and staging cancer.
• Evaluating brain disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease.
• Monitoring heart conditions.
• Suspected infections or inflammatory conditions.
• Patients who have received abnormal results from other diagnostic tests (e.g., CT or MRI).

Preparation

• Fast for at least 4-6 hours before the procedure, consuming only water.
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours prior.
• Diabetic patients may need specific instructions regarding insulin and food intake.
• Inform your doctor of any medications you are taking.
• Undergo a recent blood sugar test if you have diabetes.

Procedure Description

1. Upon arrival, a small amount of FDG will be injected into your bloodstream via an IV line.
2. You'll rest quietly for 30-60 minutes while the FDG circulates and is absorbed by your tissues.
3. You'll then lie on a table that slides into the PET scanner.
4. The scanner will take detailed images of your body, capturing how the FDG is absorbed by different tissues.
5. The entire scan process usually takes about 30-45 minutes.

Duration

The whole procedure typically lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, including preparation and scanning time.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in a hospital's radiology department or at an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Nuclear medicine technologist
• Nurses for IV insertion and monitoring
• Possibly an oncologist or cardiologist for specific cases

Risks and Complications

• Rare allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer.
• Slight discomfort or pain at the injection site.
• Very low risk of radiation exposure, which is generally considered safe but should be discussed if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• False positives/negatives leading to additional testing.

Benefits

• Provides detailed images that help diagnose or manage serious conditions.
• Can detect disease at an early stage when it may be more treatable.
• Offers functional information that is not available through other imaging methods.

Recovery

• You'll be advised to drink plenty of water to help flush the tracer from your system.
• Normal activities can typically be resumed immediately after leaving the imaging center.
• Follow-up appointments may be necessary to discuss the results with your doctor.

Alternatives

• CT or MRI scans: These offer structural details but less functional information.
• Ultrasound: Uses sound waves, especially for soft tissue conditions but less detailed in many cases.
• Biopsy: For tissue sampling but is more invasive.

The pros of PET scans include more detailed functional imaging, potentially leading to quicker diagnoses. Cons may include exposure to a small amount of radiation and higher costs compared to some other imaging modalities.

Patient Experience

• During the scan, you'll need to lie still, which can be uncomfortable but not painful.
• Some patients feel anxious while being in the scanner but reassurance and comfort measures are provided.
• Pain at the injection site is usually minimal and temporary.
• Overall, the procedure is generally well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing only minor discomfort.