Understanding PET CT Scan - How it works and what to expect

PET CT (Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography) is a medical imaging technique that combines the functional information of PET and the anatomical details of CT to produce highly detailed images of the human body. During the scan, a small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into the patient's bloodstream, which is then absorbed by the organs and tissues being imaged. As the tracer decays, it emits positrons which collide with electrons and produce gamma rays. These gamma rays are detected by the PET scanner and used to create a three-dimensional image of the body's metabolic activity. The CT scanner then produces a detailed anatomical image of the same area.

Techniques used in PET CT Scan:

The following are the techniques used in PET-CT scan:

1. Radiotracer injection: Before the scan, a small amount of radioactive material known as a radiotracer is injected into the patient. The radiotracer is usually a sugar molecule tagged with a radioactive atom.

2. PET imaging: The radiotracer emits positrons, which collide with electrons in the body, producing gamma rays that are detected by a PET scanner. PET imaging produces three-dimensional images of the distribution of the radiotracer in the body, indicating areas of high metabolic activity.

3. CT imaging: A CT scan is then performed immediately after the PET scan. The CT scan uses X-rays to produce detailed images of the internal structures of the body. This provides anatomic information that helps to identify the location of abnormal metabolic activity detected by the PET scan.

4. Fusion imaging: The PET and CT images are combined using special software to create fused images. The fused images provide a more accurate and comprehensive view of the body, enabling physicians to identify and locate abnormalities.

5. Image interpretation: The fused images are interpreted by a radiologist or a nuclear medicine specialist, who looks for areas of abnormal metabolic activity that may indicate the presence of cancer or other diseases.

Conclusion:

Medipulse Hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art PET CT scanning technology, and our highly trained staff ensures that every patient is comfortable and well-informed before, during, and after the scan. Our hospital follows strict safety protocols to ensure that the scan is performed with the utmost care, and our team of radiologists is always available to interpret the results and provide appropriate treatment recommendations. If you need a PET CT scan, we encourage you to schedule an appointment with us and experience the high-quality care that we provide.