PET CT Scan Near Me
To ensure a successful PET-CT scan, it is important to be as prepared as possible. Before your appointment, make sure you bring relevant medical records that will help the physician work up your case and identify any potential problems. If you have had a PET scan before, bring a DICOM version of the PET scan on CD so that your physician can compare the results. PET-CT scans usually take between three and four hours. The actual scanning time varies depending on the clinical condition.
PET-CT scans are conducted by a technician who specializes in these types of imaging. The results of the PET scan are interpreted by a physician who is either a nuclear medicine specialist or radiologist. The PET-CT scan can be performed at a hospital or an imaging center. It is important to follow all preparation instructions carefully, and ask questions if you are not clear on something. In addition, you should avoid any strenuous exercise for the day of your appointment.
During a PET/CT scan, a tracer is injected into a vein in the arm or hand. It collects in areas where metabolic activity is high. A computer workstation in a separate control room is used to process the images. The technologist monitors the exam in visual contact with the patient. If you have a nervous or claustrophobic condition, you can take a mild sedative before the scan.
A PET-CT scan is safe for most people, but there are risks associated with the procedure. pet ct scan near me are not recommended for pregnant women, as the radiation can harm the developing fetus. Therefore, pregnant women should have this test only in a medical emergency. If you are in any doubt, contact your doctor and ask for a PET-CT scan near you. It will take about ten minutes to complete and will cost a few hundred dollars.
How to Prepare for a PET CT Scan Near Me
PET scanners have many advantages. They can show you more about the function of various organs and tissues than traditional X-rays do. The PET scan can also detect changes in cellular structure. This means that your doctor can detect abnormalities even before gross anatomy can be seen. The PET-CT scan may even help you get a more accurate diagnosis of your condition before your symptoms start. In addition, the CT scan can also help identify heart diseases or other organs in your body.
The PET-CT scanner is a large donut-shaped machine where a table slides through the center hole quickly and slowly back and forth. A staff member observes the test from a nearby room. During the test, a nurse or technician will be available to talk to you. You can ask them questions and explain your concerns to make sure you are comfortable with the procedure. The entire procedure usually lasts one to two hours.
PET-CT scanning is a relatively painless procedure. The patient must lie on a table that slides into and out of the center of the machine. The technician will be in the adjoining room and can communicate with you via an intercom. Your technologist will ask you to hold your breath for a minute before the scan to avoid any blurring of the images. PET-CT scans typically last about half an hour and you should not feel any pain during the procedure.