What position do you lay in for a PET scan?

During the imaging scan, you will be required to lie flat with your arms raised above your head. If you think you will be unable to keep your arms above your head for approximately 35 minutes, please notify the technologist, and they may accommodate you.

Do you lay on your back for a PET scan?

Once you're ready to start the scan, you'll be asked to lie on your back on a platform. The platform will enter a long tube where the PET scan is performed. The scan will take 20 to 40 minutes. It's very important to remain still during the test.

How long do you have to lie down for a PET scan?

You will sit or lie down on a comfortable chair or bed for 30-90 minutes while the FDG travels throughout your body. During this time, a family member or loved one will be allowed to safely wait with you until it is time for your test. At this time the technologist will assist you to the scanner.

How uncomfortable is a PET scan?

The scan is completely painless, but you may feel uncomfortable lying still for this long. If you feel unwell at any point there is a buzzer you can press to alert the medical team.

How does a patient prepare for a PET scan?

What to expect during a PET scan

Do you feel OK after a PET scan?

You shouldn't experience any side effects after having a PET scan and can usually go home the same day. The results of your scan won't usually be available on the same day.

Can I brush my teeth before a PET scan?

Can I brush my teeth before a PET/CT scan? Normal brushing without swallowing mouthwash or toothpaste within the four hour preparation timeframe will have no effect on the outcome of your PET/CT scan.

Can you lay on your stomach for a PET scan?

When it is time for the scan to begin, the technologist will help you position your body comfortably on a table. You will likely lie on your back, but you may need to lie on your stomach or side.

Do you wear clothes during a PET scan?

Specific protocols may vary, but generally a PET scan follows this process: You will be asked to remove any clothing, jewelry, or other objects that may interfere with the scan. If you are asked to remove clothing, you will be given a gown to wear.

Is a PET scan very claustrophobic?

It is much less confining than an MRI. It is also very quiet and comfortable. Most claustrophobic patients have no difficulty with the procedure. However, if you are severely claustrophobic, you might ask your doctor to consider a mild sedative.

How do I relax before a PET scan?

Before your PET/CT scan

You can take medications such as Valium, Ativan, or pain medications to lessen any anxiety or discomfort you may have. Please talk with your physician if you are taking medication for relaxation or need information.

Can you pee before a PET scan?

If you're having a brain PET-CT, it is important to limit brain activity before your scan. Your nurse may tell you not to read or listen to music while you're waiting for your scan. Your care team will ask you to urinate (pee) just before your scan.

What interferes with PET scan?

Certain factors or conditions may interfere with the accuracy of a PET scan, including: High blood glucose levels in diabetics. Caffeine, alcohol, or tobacco consumed within 24 hours of the procedure. Excessive anxiety (may affect brain function)

Does a PET scan include the neck?

A positron emission tomography (PET) scan may be the preferred imaging technique for evaluating cancers of the head, neck and oral cavity.

Can I drive after PET scan?

Do not drive for at least 4 hours after the scan. Resume your normal diet and medications. During the entire day before your PET/CT scan, you will need to follow the diet recommended below.

What can I eat for breakfast before a PET scan?

You will be asked to eat a low carbohydrate diet. Foods that can be eaten include: meat, hard cheese, tofu, eggs, butter and vegetables with no starch. Some foods that are NOT allowed include: cereal, pasta, milk, breads and other sugars.

Do you have to hold your breath for a PET scan?

Routine PET scans are usually acquired with 2 to 3 minutes per bed position, but patients cannot hold their breath for the entire time, especially in view of their impaired health status.

Why can't you have caffeine before a PET scan?

Caffeine. Caffeine, a stimulant, can increase your heart rate and blood pressure and inhibits the effectiveness of the medication needed for the stress portion of the test. Caffeine will interfere with the results of your cardiac PET scan, and if consumed, your appointment will be rescheduled.

What is the biggest disadvantage in using a PET scan?

The major drawback to standard PET is that the images are of substantially lower resolution than, for example, those of CT and MRI, and PET is generally poor at delineating anatomic detail.

Does a PET scan do your head?

A PET scan can show the size, shape, and function of the brain, so your doctor can make sure it is working as well as it should. It is most often used when other tests, such as MRI scan or CT scan, do not provide enough information.

Why do I feel sick after PET scan?

PET-CT Precautions

If undergoing a combination PET-CT scan, the iodine-based contrast dye used for the CT component can cause side effects, including nausea, vomiting, headache, itching, flushing, and mild rash. In rare cases, a serious, all-body allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis may occur.

What cancers Cannot be detected by PET scan?

Though most cancers are picked up on PET CT, there are a few which do not. The most important of these would be cancer of stomach (signet cell type). In such cases performing this test would be waste. However, there are cancers which are very sensitively detected which include lymphoma, GIST, etc.

What medications should be stopped before a PET scan?

Patient can take normal medications except for diabetic or syrup based medications. Avoid any strenuous exercise 24-36 hours prior to your appointment.

Who should not get a PET scan?

Don't have a PET scan if you think you might be pregnant. Nursing Mothers. Additionally, nursing mothers should pump and store breast milk before the test; they will not be able to resume breastfeeding for 24 hours following the test.

What cancers will a PET scan show?

PET scans can show solid tumors in the brain, prostate, thyroid, lungs, and cervix. The scans can also evaluate the occurrence of colorectal, lymphoma, melanoma, and pancreatic tumors. They are also used to assess if treatment is being effective in eliminating cancer.