Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scans
Nuclear Medicine Solutions in NJ
Positron emission tomography scans (or "PET scans") are nuclear medicine procedures that involve introducing radiotracers into the body of a patient so that specially calibrated cameras can capture images of patient's organs. PET scans are used to monitor the efficiency and effectiveness of critical body functions.
PET scans offer our doctors insight into a patient's:
- Blood flow
- Organ function
- Metabolism (glucose processing)
- Oxygen use
PET scans are often used to detect:
- Cancer
- Alzheimer's disease
- Heart disease
What You Can Expect
When you arrive at your PET scan appointment, you will review any necessary preparations that were previously provided to you with our staff. PET scans require approximately six hours of fasting beforehand and abstaining from caffeine and alcohol for a full day prior to the scan. Your doctor and your radiologist may also discuss other important factors (such as recent pregnancy or existing health concerns) that could affect your PET scan.
Once you are ready to proceed with your scan, radiotracers will be introduced intravenously (IV). These tracers will be drawn throughout your body, including the areas where doctors need to see into.
The patient then lies on a table where a large, doughnut-shaped scanner can move across the patient's body. This scanner contains the camera technology that will produce the images for your PET scan.
PET scans can take anywhere from 15 minutes to a half an hour depending on the patient's needs. Our friendly, knowledgeable radiology staff is ready to answer your questions and walk you through your procedure with us.