Name of the Procedure:

Common Name(s): PET Imaging for Breast Cancer
Technical/Medical Term(s): Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scanning

Summary

PET imaging is a diagnostic procedure that uses a specialized camera and a radioactive tracer to capture detailed images of the breast and neighboring areas, like the axillary lymph nodes. These images help doctors evaluate the initial stages of breast cancer and plan surgical interventions effectively.

Purpose

PET imaging is primarily used for:

• Initial diagnosis of breast cancer.
• Staging of breast cancer to determine the extent of disease spread, particularly to axillary lymph nodes.
• Assisting in surgical planning by providing precise and comprehensive imaging.

Indications

PET imaging is indicated for patients who:

• Have been newly diagnosed with breast cancer.
• Require assessment of lymph node involvement.
• Need detailed imaging to guide surgical planning.

Preparation

• Patients may be asked to fast for several hours before the procedure to ensure clear imaging.
• Adjustments to certain medications might be necessary as advised by the healthcare provider.
• Pre-procedure diagnostic tests, such as blood work, may be required.

Procedure Description

1. The procedure starts with the intravenous injection of a radioactive glucose tracer.
2. The patient rests for about 30-60 minutes to allow the tracer to circulate and be absorbed by the tissues.
3. The patient is then positioned on the PET scanner bed, and the scanner captures images.
4. The scanner uses either a full-ring or partial-ring configuration to detect the radiation emitted by the tracer.
5. These images are processed and reviewed by a radiologist to identify cancerous cells.
   • The procedure is non-invasive but may involve intravenous injection.
   • No anesthesia or sedation is generally required.

Duration

The entire procedure, including preparation and imaging, typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.

Setting

PET imaging is performed in specialized imaging centers, hospitals, or outpatient clinics equipped with PET scanners.

Personnel

• Radiologists
• Nuclear medicine technologists
• Nurses for IV administration and patient care
• Support staff

Risks and Complications

• Exposure to low levels of radiation, which is generally considered safe but poses minimal risk.
• Rare allergic reactions to the radioactive tracer.
• Discomfort at the IV injection site.

Benefits

• Provides detailed and accurate images that can improve cancer diagnosis and staging.
• Helps in precise surgical planning, potentially leading to better outcomes.
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort.

Recovery

• Patients can usually resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Drinking plenty of fluids post-procedure can help flush out the radioactive tracer.
• Scheduling follow-up appointments for further assessment is common.

Alternatives

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Offers detailed images without radiation, although it may not be as effective in detecting certain types of cancer spread.
• CT (Computed Tomography) scans: Useful for detailed images but involves higher radiation levels.
• Ultrasound: Non-invasive and radiation-free, but less detailed for staging purposes.

Patient Experience

• During the procedure, patients may feel a slight sting from the injection and need to lie still while images are taken.
• Post-procedure, patients usually feel normal, with no significant side effects.
• Pain management is not typically necessary, as the procedure is minimally uncomfortable.