Oncology Alliance offers the most up to date equipment and technology for PET/CT scans. Our Gemini Scanner allows us to perform both PET and diagnostic CT scans at the same time on the same machine. This allows us to perform the scans quickly and accurately without asking the patient to get on and off two scanner tables.

PET Applications in Oncology:

PET technology is primarily used in Oncology (the study and treatment of cancer) in diagnosing and managing the following types of cancer:

• Single Pulmonary Nodules
• Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
• Colorectal Cancer
• Lymphoma
• Head & Neck Cancers
• Esophageal Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer
• Melanoma
• Cervix Cancer

What is PET?

PET means Positron Emission Tomography. It is a non-invasive procedure that can locate abnormal biochemistry in a patient.

In cancer, changes in biochemistry occur before a tumor mass forms. As a result, PET can often identify the presence of disease earlier than a test which looks for a tumor mass.

PET information is usually used together with CT or MR information. The PET scan can help identify the presence of abnormal biochemistry or disease, while CT or MR can be used to precisely identify the location of the disease.

What is a PET/CT Scan?

PET/CT is the most advanced molecular imaging technique available today, combining Positron Emission Tomography with Computed Tomography.

PET/CT combines the fine structural detail of CT with PET's ability to detect changes in cell function in order to identify both presence of disease and its precise location. This combination allows for earlier and more accurate detection of disease than either CT or PET alone.

A PET/CT scan helps your physician diagnose a problem, determine the best approach to treatment or monitor your progress.

How do PET and PET/CT Scans Work?

Cancer cells grow at a very fast rate. Growing cells use glucose as a primary source of energy. The faster cells grow, the more glucose is consumed.

A radioactive form of glucose called FDG, which emits particles called positrons, is injected into the patient. The FDG molecules are consumed more in fast-growing cancer cells than in normal cells, resulting in concentrations of FDG, and positrons, in areas of cancer.

Both PET and CT scanners detect where positrons are being emitted from within a patient and provide images that map the locations.

Preparing for Your PET Scan:

For six hours before your scan do not eat or drink (except water).

Continue to take any medications that have been prescribed by your physicians. Remember to drink plenty of water. Patients who are diabetic may be given special instructions.

Avoid caffeine, sugar, smoking/tobacco, and heavy exercise 24 hour prior to your exam.

Wear warm comfortable clothing; the scanner room is cool. If you are cold we will provide a warm blanket for your comfort.

Avoid wearing any metal or jewelry, including belts, buttons or zippers. Sweat pants/shirts are recommended.

Arrive at the center at your scheduled time. This is extremely important as the FDG isotope has a very short useful life. If you need to cancel your appointment, please call our clinic 24 hours in advance so that we can cancel your FDG dose.

What You need to Bring:

• Previous diagnostic imaging films (CT, PET etc.)
• Insurance cards

What to Expect During Your PET/CT Scan:

After checking in at reception you will go a preparation area where a PET technologist will begin the process by asking you questions regarding your medical history. This information helps the radiologist who will read your scans.

A blood sample will be taken to monitor your blood glucose level before any testing begins.

An IV will be placed in an arm or hand vein in order to infuse the FDG isotope. Once the FDG has been injected, you will be asked to rest in a quiet room for approximately one hour. Before the actual scan begins you will be allowed to use the restroom.

Total time for the process is 2-21/2 hours. The actual scan time is approximately one hour.

After Your Scan:

Unless you have additional appointments at the clinic, you may immediately leave. You will have only minimal restrictions for four hours following your exam. You may drive if you wish, resume your normal diet, exercise, and take all prescribed medications.

Your PET/CT scan images will be reviewed by a radiologist who is specifically trained in PET. A report will be sent to the physician who ordered the scan.

Your physician will contact you about the results of your PET/CT scan.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Will I be exposed to radiation? Yes, but the exposure is similar to other diagnostic tests like CT and X-rays.
2. Will I experience any side effects from a PET scan? No. PET scanning is very safe and you will not have any side effects from the injection.
3. Is my PET scan covered by my insurance? Most PET scans for cancer evaluation will be covered. Oncology Alliance staff will call your insurance carrier to verify authorization for the scan. Please be aware that pre-authorization does not guarantee payment by your insurance carrier.