PET-CT Scan 

What is a PET-CT scan? 

PET-CT (positron emission tomography–computed tomography) is a hybrid imaging technique that combines two different imaging modalities: positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT). PET detects the metabolic activity of cells in the body, while CT provides detailed anatomical images of organs and tissues. By combining these two techniques, PET-CT makes it possible to obtain both functional and anatomical information, which helps to diagnose and stage various diseases, especially cancer. 

What is this diagnostic procedure for? 

PET-CT is primarily used in: 

• Detection and staging of cancer: it allows for detection of the presence of cancer, determination of its extent (staging), and evaluation of whether it has spread to other organs (metastasis). 

• Monitoring the response to cancer treatment: it helps to assess whether cancer treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery) is effective. 

• Differentiation between scar tissue and tumor recurrence: it allows us to distinguish between scar tissue, which is dead tissue left after treatment, and tumor recurrence, which is the growth of new cancer cells. 

• Diagnosis of neurological diseases: it can be used to diagnose and evaluate neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy. 

• Diagnosis of heart disease: it can be used to diagnose and evaluate heart diseases, such as myocardial ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart). 

Benefits of advanced technology in a PET-CT scan 

A PET-CT scan offers a number of key benefits thanks to the technology it uses: 

• Functional and anatomical information: it provides both functional and anatomical information, allowing for a more complete assessment of the disease. 

• Early detection: it allows diseases to be detected at an early stage, before symptoms appear. 

• Diagnostic accuracy: it improves diagnostic accuracy compared to conventional imaging techniques. 

Treatment planning: it helps to plan the most appropriate treatment for each patient. 

Recommendations for the procedure 

Remember that it is important to adhere to the following recommendations to ensure the quality of the test and your comfort: 

• Fasting: follow all fasting instructions provided by your doctor or hospital staff. 

• Report allergies and medications: it’s important to tell your doctor about any allergies you have and about all the medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. 

• Drink plenty of fluids: drink plenty of fluids before and after the procedure. 

• Inform about pregnancy or breastfeeding: if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your doctor. 

Are there any risks? 

A PET-CT scan is generally considered safe, but like any medical procedure involving radiation, there are some minor risks to consider: 

• Exposure to radiation: radiation exposure is low and considered safe. Your doctor will assess whether the benefits outweigh the risks. 

• Allergic reactions: in rare cases, allergic reactions to the radiopharmaceutical may occur. 

• Discomfort at the injection site: you may experience discomfort at the injection site. 

To ensure your procedure runs smoothly, we ask that you arrive before the scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation. 

Before the procedure, we will give you the Informed Consent form, a document with important information that you must read and sign. 

If your appointment is for an MRI, it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metallic objects, prostheses (including dental prostheses), tattoos, or drug infusion devices such as insulin pumps. 

These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is still the unlikely possibility of an incident.