PET, positron emission tomography, is an imaging procedure used to measure metabolic activity of cells in the human body. A PET scan produces images of the body’s cellular metabolism, allowing physicians to see how cells in the brain, heart or other body organs are working. CT, computed tomography, scans produce images of the body’s anatomy or structure. Combining the two allows for a very sophisticated piece of equipment that provides physicians with a powerful tool for the detection and diagnosis of diseases, such as cancer, earlier and more accurately, improving a patient’s chances for a good outcome.

During a PET-CT scan, the patient receives a small IV injection of radioactive material, which travels through the bloodstream toward organs in the body showing increased cellular activity. The radioactive material is detected by the scanner and processed by a sophisticated computer to form a 3-dimensional image of the body.

PET-CT offers many benefits:

• The combination of PET and CT provides a more accurate picture of the internal workings of the body
• Because PET and CT scans are performed simultaneously, it provides precise correlation of cellular function with anatomical information
• Definitive diagnosis is achieved sooner, allowing for quicker treatment
• It provides precise staging of disease and better monitoring of recurrences
• Invasive surgery to determine whether a tumor exists may be avoided
• It’s one appointment rather than two -- although the appointment time is approximately two hours total, the scan time is 30-45 minutes

PET-CT brochure