Undergoing a PET/CT scan: Importance of fasting before the scan
A PET CT scan is a unique diagnostic tool that combines two imaging techniques – Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography. This scan offers an all-encompassing look into the functioning and structure of various organs and tissues, including the brain, heart, central nervous system, and cancer. The use of a radioactive tracer in the form of a contrast dye helps to pinpoint abnormal cells and provide high-resolution images of the affected areas. The combination of PET and CT scans offers a comprehensive evaluation of complex systemic diseases, as it detects problems at both the cellular and structural levels. This information is crucial for determining an accurate diagnosis and the most effective course of treatment.
What can the PET/CT scan do?
- The PET CT scan is a widely utilized diagnostic tool that is employed to uncover a range of complicated systemic issues, such as cancer, heart conditions, and neurological disorders.
- With this scan, a wide range of cancers, including prostate, breast, brain, ovarian, liver, and others can be detected.
- The scan is also used to determine the efficacy of treatment and uncover heart conditions such as coronary artery disease and heart failure.
- Additionally, it is an effective tool in the diagnosis of neurological issues like Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and head trauma.
- The PET CT scan offers a comprehensive examination of the functioning and structure of the body’s organs and tissues, providing critical information for effective treatment planning.
Why is Fasting recommended Before the PET/CT scan?
Undergoing a PET/CT scan demands that you fast ahead of the sscan for the best results.
PET CT scanning employs the use of the radioisotope 18F-FDG, which is a radioactive marker of glucose metabolism.
This substance is drawn to the more metabolically active regions of the body.
The glucose levels in the body can be altered by consuming food or drinks, causing insulin levels to rise.
Normally, muscles consume glucose for energy, but if a person consumes food or drinks before the scan, the increased glucose level can be taken up by the muscles instead of the area of interest, affecting the accuracy of the test results.
To ensure optimal imaging, it is recommended to fast for 4-6 hours prior to the scan. Any dietary changes can easily alter the body’s glucose levels.
In some instances, even with fasting, the glucose levels in the body may still be too high or too low.
In these cases, medication to regulate the glucose levels may be given before the PET CT scan, or the test may be rescheduled for another day to obtain the best possible images.
To obtain accurate results from a PET CT scan, a doctor may recommend the following:
- A special diet for a minimum of 18 to 20 hours prior to the test:
- Consume a high protein, low carbohydrate diet, including foods such as eggs, broccoli, spinach, green beans, cabbage, cauliflower, cucumber, and mushrooms.
- Stay hydrated by drinking the recommended amount of water.
- Avoid foods that may raise the glucose level, such as cereals, pasta, fruit, dry beans, juices, candy, tea, coffee, rice, jams, syrups, and more.
How a PET/CT scan is performed
If you will be undergoing a PET/CT scan soon, get used to the procedures you will go through to get it done.
A step-by-step guide to undergoing a PET CT scan:
- The technologist will administer a radioisotope through an IV line in your arm or hand.
- Wait approximately one hour for your body to absorb the radioactive tracers.
- The technologist will take you to the scanning room.
- Lie on a flat table attached to a PET/CT machine.
- The table will be slid into the scanner and the scanning will begin.
- Remain still during the scanning process while the machine’s camera captures images.
- Once the required images are recorded, the table will be slid out of the scanner.
How long will a standard PET/CT Scan take?
The entire process of a PET/CT scan takes roughly 60 to 90 minutes, which includes:
- Administering radioisotopes
- Waiting for the body to absorb the radioactive tracer (takes about 1 hour)
- The actual scanning procedure (takes 15 to 30 minutes)
How much does a basic PET/CT scan cost?
It can be difficult to determine the exact cost of a PET/CT scan, as prices vary depending on the diagnostic center and location. On average, however, the cost of a PET scan typically ranges from approximately $300 to $400. To find out the specific cost for your health issue, it’s best to contact a diagnostic center in your area for more information.
READ: Africa’s health care challenges and improve healthcare outcomes in Africa
A PET-CT scan is a medical imaging procedure that combines two techniques to check for disease. It uses a radioactive tracer to examine the functioning of organs and tissues. The results of the scan can be affected by diet and fluid, so it is recommended to fast for 4 to 6 hours and follow a special diet for 20 to 24 hours before the examination. Accurate results require following the doctor’s instructions on diet, medication, and health condition. Contact the facility for more information specific to your needs.
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