“I have had many exams at DRA and have always been treated with respect and sensitivity to my privacy. Staff, both male and female, are friendly and make the exam less stressful.”
PET/CT
What is Integrated PET/CT
Integrated (In-Line) PET/CT combines both PET (Positron Emission Tomography) and CT into one single exam to provide a picture of function and anatomy in one sitting. This diagnostic imaging tool gives physicians a highly defined 3D metabolic map of the body. It determines which cells are functioning abnormally and pin-points their exact location in the body.
PET/CT Utilization
PET/CT is now being used in three medical disciplines: 1:Oncology (cancer care), to determine the exact location and extent of tumor growth, in treatment planning and as a follow up post therapy. 2: In neurology, to aid in the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and seizures. 3: In surgery, to assess an appropriate location for an invasive procedure. Medical studies have proven PET/CT to be more accurate than PET and CT performed separately.
How do I prepare for a PET/CT Exam
You should have nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to the exam. Do not exercise 24 hours prior to the exam, and follow a low carbohydrate diet. Please wear comfortable clothing to the exam.
Of Note: If you are diabetic, or have any further questions, please contact us at 845-454-4700 ext. 5643
Your cooperation can have a great impact on the success of your exam.
What Happens the Day of and During the Procedure
The entire procedure takes from 1 to 3 hours. The visit includes a small IV injection of FDG, a glucose radioisotope, followed by a 45 to 60 minute resting period. During this time the patient is requested to lie still within a quiet room and relax while the injection of the FDG is taken up by the body. You will then be escorted into the scan room and asked to lie on the PET/CT table for about 30 minutes while the images are acquired.
Pregnancy Policy:
All patients of childbearing age (10 - 54) will be required to sign that there is No Chance of Pregnancy prior to an imaging exam being performed (Exception: - Ultrasound). If there is a chance of pregnancy, STAT blood work will be ordered prior to the procedure being performed to establish that there is no chance of pregnancy.
In the event, you are pregnant and the exam is deemed necessary by your physician, you will be shielded and monitored with a radiation badge.