PET/CT

The expected time to be in our facility for a PET/CT exam is 2-3 hours. Included in this time is also the check in process.

The injection required for a PET/CT exam is a time sensitive Radioisotope that is specifically ordered on a per patient/per exam basis. Once an appointment has been confirmed with the patient, a 24 hour notice of cancellation is required in order to avoid the patient being billed for the Radioisotope.

Patients should be instructed to fast, except for water, 4 hours prior to their scheduled arrival time.
A high protein/low carbohydrate/low sugar diet the day before the exam and morning of (for afternoon appointments) will improve the quality of the scan.

Items to stay away from include…Potatoes, Beets, Carrots, All Fruits, Alcohol, Rice, Breads, Corn, Juices, Coffee with Sugar, Pasta, Peas, Crackers, Soda & Soft Drinks, Sweet Tea

Water is allowed and encouraged up until the patient’s scheduled arrival time.

Medications may be taken the day of exam, with water only. Diabetic patients should take their oral medication; however, injected insulin should be avoided.In order to keep their blood sugar at a minimum, patients with diabetes should have early morning appointments.

All PET/CT patients will require a finger stick first to check their glucose (blood sugar) level, followed by an injection of a radioactive isotope. The isotope is NOT an iodine injection, and the patient cannot be allergic to it.

Any exercise, especially jogging or weightlifting should be avoided 24-48 hours prior to the appointment.

Patients should be instructed to dress warmly, to wear clothing without metal, and please do not wear jewelry. Pacemakers will not interfere with this exam.

Some examples of foods that are allowed: (high protein/low carbohydrate)
Beef, Tuna, Cucumber, Black Coffee, Chicken, Turkey, Lettuce/Spinach, Crystal Light, Eggs, Asparagus, Mushrooms, Unsweetened Tea, Fish, Broccoli, Nuts, Water, Lamb, Cauliflower, Peanut Butter, Pork, Cheese, Tomato, Tofu, Cottage Cheese, Zucchini

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