Positron Emission Tomography (PET)/CT scan at LMH Health
When your doctor needs imaging to help diagnose cardiac issues, cancer or brain disorders, you may undergo a positron emission tomography (PET) scan. This imaging test is used to look at organs in your body and diagnose disease.
At LMH Health, we use the GE Omni Legend PET/CT scanner to:
- Detect, stage and evaluate treatment options for cancer
- Evaluate the health of heart muscle and check for signs of heart attack or heart disease
In the future, we will also use PET/CT to examine the brain’s blood flow and detect conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, brain tumors, dementia and epilepsy.
How does a PET scan work?
You’ll be given an intravenous (IV) injection of a small amount of a short-acting radioactive liquid (tracer). Cells using a lot of energy absorb large amounts of the tracer. The PET/CT scanner uses specialized cameras to detect these cells.
How is it different from a CT scan or an MRI?
Computed tomography (CT) scans use X-rays. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans use magnets and radio waves.
A PET scan uses radioactive tracers to detect metabolic activity and show how your organs are functioning in real time. PET can be combined with CT and/or MRI to provide for enhanced diagnostic capabilities.
Is it safe?
PET scans are safe. The amount of radiation in the tracer is low and only stays in your body for a short time. Drinking lots of water after the scan helps flush the tracer from your body.
How long does it take?
A PET scan is an outpatient procedure that takes about two hours. It can take up to an hour for your body to absorb the IV tracer and the scan itself takes about 30 minutes. Our nuclear medicine technologist will review the scan to make sure the images are clear before you leave.
How soon will I get my results?
Our radiologists will examine your scans and write a report for your doctor, who will explain the results to you. These results should be ready within 24 to 48 hours.
