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PET/PET-CT

A PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scan is an imaging exam that creates pictures of metabolic activity inside your body. A small amount of radioactive material (called FDG) is injected into your bloodstream. The PET scan takes images of the areas of your body where the FDG travels. These images are helpful in diagnosing certain cardiovascular or systemic diseases because they identify areas in the body where normal levels of metabolic activity are not taking place, possibly meaning there may be a problem. PET scans are helpful in evaluating the extent of diseases, including cancers.

It is likely that you will need to be injected with a contrast material right before your scan. To do this, an intravenous line will be inserted into your arm. If you have ever had any allergic reaction to any type of contrast agent, make sure to tell the technologist when he or she asks you before the injection.

For the scan itself, the technologist will explain in detail what type of scan you are having and how long you will be on the scan table. You will also be able to hear the technologist via an intercom from time to time during the scan.

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