The entire process will take approximately 90 minutes from start to finish.
Step 1: Registration
When you arrive for your PET/CT scan, you will be asked to provide a medical history and insurance information. We will also make a copy of your photo ID and insurance cards.
Step 2: Blood Sample
A small amount of blood will be taken from your fingertip to check your blood sugar. Your blood sugar will affect the diagnostic quality of the test which is why we check this before beginning the test.
Step 3: Tracer Injection
The technologist will inject a small amount of a radioactive tracer into your bloodstream by starting an IV. That IV will be removed immediately after the injection.
Step 4: Relax
After your injection, you will sit in a dimly lit room in a comfortable recliner for about 1 hour. This allows the tracer to circulate and be absorbed throughout the body.
Step 5: The Scan
For your scan, you will lay on a small “scanning bed” that moves slowly through the PET/CT scanner. We will ask that you stay as still as possible during the scan. However, you can breath and blink normally.
Although, a PET/CT appointment can last for up to 90 minutes, the average scan time is 20 minutes. This will vary person to person. A radiologist will review the images and provide a report the your physician who referred you to us for the PET scan.