Exams and Preps > PET/CT

PET/CT Scans (Positron Emission Tomography) are now available via a mobile service on our Silverdale Campus. PET/CT gives one the ability to produce highly detailed images of the human body's metabolic functions, along with fased CT images showing Anatomic correlation. PET/CT is fast becoming the diagnostic tool of choice for many things, from cancer to cardiology to neurological disorders.

Compounds like simple sugars (glucose, for example) are labeled with signal-emitting tracers (FDG, or F18-Fluoro-Deoxy-Glucose) and are injected into the patient. A scanner records the signals these tracers emit as they travel through the human body and collect in the various organs targeted for examination. A computer then reassembles the signals into actual images-pictures that show biological causes of normal organ function and failure of organ systems in disease.

PET/CT is the only tool that can accurately image the metabolic function of cancer. Malignant cells have a higher glucose metabolism, which allows PET/CT to locate the tumor, tell whether it is benign or malignant, and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

PET/CT, in conjunction with Nuclear Medicine SPECT scans, can accurately assess the flow of blood to the heart tissue, and indicate what type of treatment is indicated.

PET/CT is a useful test in evaluating brain diseases such as Alzheimer's as it shows the difference between normal brain activity and one affected by the disease. Alzheimer's disease can even be detected several years earlier than the onset of symptoms.  This test can differentiate Alzheimer's disease from other forms of dementia.  If this test is done early enough, a patient could make full use of drug therapies.  Test results could also reassure fearful patients that they don't have the disease.

For best results for your PET/CT scan, please follow these instructions.  If you have any questions about the scan or your appointment, please call 360-337-6500 or 800-972-9264.

Instructions and requirements for All Patients

• No food or drink (other than water) for 6 hours prior to scan (including gum, breath mints, cough drops, hard candy or anything that may contain sugar).
• You may drink ONLY water up to the time of your scan.  It must be plain, unflavored water, no tea or coffee.  Anything other than water could alter the results of your scan.  No energy drinks such as Gatorade, as they are high in sugar.
• It is highly recommended that you follow a high protein, low carbohydrate diet for 24 hours prior to your test to increase the quality of your PET/CT images.  Carbohydrates include sugars as well as bread, rice and potatoes.
• No strenuous exercise 24 hours prior to your scan.
• Take medications as scheduled prior to your scan as long as they are tolerated on an empty stomach.
• Wear warm, loose-fitting clothing; the scanning room tends to be quite cool.  You will NOT be required to remove your clothing prior to the scan.
• Avoid wearing any metal that cannot be removed during the scan (including underwire bra, jewelry and hair pins/clips).
• Allow 2 hours for your appointment.  For the scan itself you must be able to lay still and mostly flat for about 30 minutes.
• If you need pain or anxiety medication, take medication prescribed by your physician 1 hour before the scan.

Additional Instructions for Diabetic Patients

• Diabetics who take ORAL medications should wait until the scan is completed to take them.
• Subcutaneous insulin dependent diabetics should have their last injection 2 hours prior to the exam.  Notify staff if you are diabetic.

Suggested Diet the Day Before your PET/CT Scan

Follow this high protein/low carbohydrate diet.  (Remember: No food for 6 hours prior to your scan).  If you are a vegetarian, you may replace the suggested meat portions with high protein/low carbohydrate meat substitutes.

Breakfast:

• 2 eggs, any style
• Bacon, sausage, or meat substitute
• Water
• No juice, toast, or potatoes

Lunch:

Entrees (choose one):

• 8 oz. grilled steak
• 8 oz. grilled salmon fillet
• Half a chicken, baked or broiled

Side Items (choose one):

• Asparagus, grilled or steamed
• Broccoli, grilled or steamed
• Mushrooms, sauteed
• Any green vegetable salad

Dinner:

Entrees (choose one)

• 8 oz. grilled steak
• 8 oz. grilled salmon fillet
• Half a chicken, baked or broiled

Side Items (choose one)

• Asparagus, grilled or steamed
• Broccoli, grilled or steamed
• Mushrooms, sauteed
• Any green vegetable salad