PET CT Scan
A PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography – Computed Tomography) scan is a medical imaging technique that combines two imaging technologies, PET and CT, into a single procedure. PET uses a small amount of radioactive material, known as a radiotracer, to create images of the body’s metabolism and cellular activity. The radiotracer is injected into the body and is taken up by cells in the body’s tissues. As the radiotracer decays, it releases positively charged particles (positrons), which then collide with negatively charged particles (electrons) in the body’s tissues. This collision creates gamma rays, which are detected by a PET scanner to create a 3D image of the body’s metabolic activity.
CT uses X-rays to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures. By combining the PET and CT images, doctors can obtain a more complete picture of the patient’s condition. PET-CT scans are used to diagnose and monitor a range of conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. The procedure is generally safe, although there is a small risk of allergic reaction to the radiotracer or radiation exposure. Patients are advised to follow instructions carefully, such as fasting before the scan and avoiding certain medications.