FDG PET
Exam Prep: FDG PET/CT
What is an FDG PET/CT Scan?
An FDG PET/CT scan is an advanced medical imaging test that helps healthcare providers detect cancer and neurological conditions by using a small amount of radioactive glucose (FDG) as a radiopharmaceutical.
How It Works
During the scan, a small amount of FDG is injected into your arm. Since the body uses glucose for energy, the PET scan highlights areas where cells are more or less active than usual, helping to identify cancer, dementia, or epilepsy. The CT component provides a detailed map of your body's structures, offering a comprehensive view of your health.
Why It Matters
According to NOPR research, PET/CT scans have been shown to significantly impact medical care, leading to changes in treatment plans for up to 49% of cancer patients.
Key Facts
- Several million PET/CT exams are performed in the U.S. each year.
- PET/CT combines two powerful imaging technologies—PET and CT—into a single, highly effective diagnostic tool called a PET/CT.
- PET/CT technology was invented in 2000 and was recognized as the Medical Invention of the Year 2000 by Time Magazine.
Exam Process
Patients can expect to be onsite for a total of 2 hours with the following exam steps:
- Check-In/Paperwork
- Technologist Meeting
- Glucose Check and Injection
- Quiet Room (1-hour)
- PET/CT scan (15-50 minutes)
Glucose Levels (Diabetic Prep)
Controlling blood sugar level is crucial for obtaining a clear and accurate PET scan. If you have high blood sugar levels over 200 mg/dL, please follow our diabetic preparation guide found on our website.
Wear Comfortable Clothing
NCPIC keeps the exam rooms cool (about 68 degrees) be sure to arrive in comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, underwire garments, and bras for better image quality. Gowns are also available for patient use.
Anxiety Medication Preparation
If you need to take medication for pain or anxiety, please bring the medication with you. NCPIC also requires having a driver escort you home as a safety precaution.
Post Scan Care & Results
Your referring doctor will get the exam results approximately 24 hours after the exam is performed. After your PET/CT exam is completed, you are safe to resume normal daily activities with the recommendation that you drink plenty of water to help flush the radiopharmaceutical out of your system.
Safety and Radioactivity
It is important to note that PET/CT exams use a small amount of radioactive material to achieve an image which is deemed safe. For more information on radiation exposure safety, please visit the NEA.
Preparation: FDG PET/CT Exam Do's
- DO Drink as much plain and unflavored water as you like; at least 3 glasses are recommended before you arrive.
- DO Take other prescribed medications on the day of your appointment, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor.
- DO Wear warm comfortable clothing such as sweats or a jogging suit with no metal if possible. Gowns are available if needed.
- DO Remember to bring a picture ID and your insurance cards.
- DO Allow 2 (to 3) hours for the procedure.
Preparation: FDG PET/CT Exam Do Not's
- DO NOT Exercise 24 hours prior to your scan.
- DO NOT Eat anything for six (6) hours before your appointment.
- DO NOT Eat carbohydrates such as bread, rice, potatoes, or pasta with your last meal prior to the start of 6-hour fasting period.
- DO NOT Chew gum, breath mints, cough drops, cough syrup, coffee, or tea.
- DO NOT Smoke e-cigarettes six (6) hours before your appointment.
- DO NOT Drink any flavored or sweetened water such as Vitamin Water, Propel, etc.
- DO NOT Bring children or pregnant women with you due to the risk of exposing them to radiation.
Locations
Sacramento
Rocklin