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What is PET-CT?

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 allows for obtaining both functional and anatomical information, which helps diagnose and stage various diseases, especially cancer.

What is this diagnostic test used for?

PET-CT is primarily used for:

  • Cancer detection and staging: Allows for detecting the presence of cancer, determining its extent (staging), and evaluating if it has spread to other organs (metastasis).
  • Monitoring response to oncological treatment: Helps evaluate whether oncological treatment (chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery) is being effective.
  • Differentiation between scar tissue and tumor recurrence: Allows distinguishing between scar tissue, which is dead tissue remaining after treatment, and tumor recurrence, which is the growth of new cancerous cells.
  • Diagnosis of neurological diseases: Can be used to diagnose and evaluate neurological diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease and epilepsy.
  • Diagnosis of heart diseases: Can be used to diagnose and evaluate heart diseases, such as myocardial ischemia (lack of blood flow to the heart).

Benefits of high technology in PET-CT

PET-CT offers a series of key benefits thanks to the technology it uses:

  • Functional and anatomical information: Provides both functional and anatomical information, allowing for a more complete evaluation of the disease.
  • Early detection: Allows for detecting diseases at an early stage, before symptoms appear.
  • Diagnostic accuracy: Improves diagnostic accuracy compared to conventional imaging techniques.
  • Treatment planning: Facilitates the planning of the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
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How is the procedure performed?

The PET-CT procedure generally proceeds as follows:

  • Preparation:

    You will be asked to fast for at least 6 hours before the test. It is important to inform your doctor about any allergies you have and about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. You will be asked to drink plenty of fluids before the test.
  • During the test:

    A small amount of a radiopharmaceutical (usually FDG, fluorodeoxyglucose) will be injected into a vein in your arm. This radiopharmaceutical is similar to glucose and accumulates in cells with high metabolic activity, such as cancer cells. After a waiting period (usually 60 to 90 minutes), you will lie on a table that slides into the PET-CT scanner, and images of your body will be taken. The acquisition of these images usually lasts between 30 and 60 minutes.
  • After the test:

    You can resume your usual activities immediately after the procedure. You will be advised to drink plenty of fluids to help eliminate the radiopharmaceutical from your body.

Recommendations for the test

Remember that it is important to follow these recommendations to ensure the quality of the study and your comfort:

  • Fasting: Follow the fasting instructions provided by your doctor or hospital staff.
  • Inform about allergies and medications: It is important to inform your doctor about any allergies you have and about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
  • Drink plenty of fluids: Drink plenty of fluids before and after the test.
  • Inform about pregnancy or breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, inform your doctor.

Are there any risks?

PET-CT is generally safe, but like any medical procedure involving radiation, it has some minimal risks to consider:

  • Radiation exposure: Radiation exposure is low and considered safe. Your doctor will evaluate if 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.

For your test to proceed smoothly, we ask that you arrive in advance of your scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.

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

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

These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of incidence.

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