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- T: +61 (2) 9430 1100
- E: mmi.enquiries@mqhealth.org.au
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Macquarie University Hospital and the Macquarie Centre
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Referral informationWhat is a PET scan?
Positron-Emission Tomography (PET) is a form of nuclear medicine imaging in which a small, safe amount of radioactive tracer – typically a simple form of glucose called fluorodeoxyglucose – is injected into the bloodstream.
The PET scanner visualises the uptake of this tracer to create an image of the tissue and organs in the body. It can provide valuable information for the diagnosis and treatment of a variety of diseases like cancer, brain or heart disease. It’s also used to investigate epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease, brain disorders, central nervous system problems, and heart disease.
PET scans are more sensitive in detecting cancer and other diseases than other imaging modalities. PET scanners have a built-in diagnostic CT so that the PET images can be fused (overlaid) perfectly one on the other. These fused images incorporate the sensitivity of a PET scan with the superior anatomy of a diagnostic CT.
By using a combined PET and CT scanner, MMI is able to provide high-resolution CT scans at the same time as a PET scan, saving you time and providing the most useful anatomical and functional information to guide treatment.
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What does the radioactive injection do?
The radioactive injection is given directly into your bloodstream via your vein. Different types of radioactive tracer target different types of disease. The PET scanner then detects the tracer and builds a digital image allowing your doctor see what’s going on in your tissues or organs.
The most commonly used form of radioactive tracer is radioactive glucose called FDG. Cancer cells absorb more glucose as compared to the normal cells around it to sustain its abnormal growth rate. The PET scan detects that there is more radiation coming from that area as opposed to the normal healthy cells.
Aside from being able to measure blood flow and oxygen intake, this procedure can check how your body uses sugar.
Preparing for a PET Scan
A PET scan is usually an outpatient procedure. It requires you to fast six hours before the scan.
In preparation for your scan, ensure that you:
- fast (have nothing to eat) for six hours prior to your scan
- if you are diabetic, please download the patient information sheets for more information on preparation
- refrain from any form of exercise for three days prior to your scan
- understand that a PET scan may take up to three hours to complete
- advise staff if you are pregnant or breastfeeding; it is not advisable to breastfeed for 24 hours after the procedure.
Some additional tips to remember:
- If you’ve been taking any medications or vitamins, make sure to tell your doctor about it.
- If you have diabetes, you may eat a light breakfast (e.g. toast and tea/coffee) four hours prior and bring your medication. Your blood glucose reading must be under 10mmol/L for the PET scan to go ahead. Consult your doctor if your blood sugar is above this level with medication.
- If you have a heart condition, don’t take caffeine one day before the test.
- If you are breastfeeding it is best that you express enough milk to be used for 24 hours or use formula for 24 hours after the PET scan.
- Wear comfortable clothes. You may also be asked to wear the hospital gown instead during the procedure. Please remove body jewellery or dentures.
How long does a PET scan take and how soon can I get the results?
Once the radiotracer is injected, it usually takes up to one hour to course through your body and be absorbed into the organ or tissue to be checked. The scan takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete.
The physician and radiologist then review the images and write a report, which is sent to your doctor in one to two days.
Macquarie Medical Imaging: all your needs in one place
Whether you need a PET or a CT scan depends on your doctor’s recommendations. Here at Macquarie Medical Imaging, we do provide high-resolution CT scans at the same time as a PET scan, saving you time and providing the most useful anatomical and functional information to guide treatment.
Our PET/CT scanner is research-grade and operated by our experienced staff who are actively involved in research and clinical medical imaging.