Prepare for PET/CT Scan Oklahoma

A positron emission tomography scan, also known as PET scan, is an advanced nuclear imaging technique that measures the metabolic activity of the cells of body tissues. It is basically a combination of nuclear medicine and biochemical analysis. The PET scan uses a radioactive drug (tracer) to show normal and abnormal activity. A PET scan can often detect the abnormal metabolism of the tracer in diseases before other imaging tests, such as computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). It helps a doctor diagnose certain health conditions, determine if an existing situation is developing and how, and then plan a treatment or check its effectiveness. Doctors commonly use PET scans for people undergoing cancer treatment or neurological or radiological problems. PET Scan provides 3-dimensional images of the inside of the body. They are used to evaluate organs and/or tissues for the presence of disease or other conditions. The scans are successful and only possible with the help of a tracer that is created fresh in a laboratory.

Today, PET scan is combined with CT scanner as it provides greater clinical data for diagnosis. PET scan is unique because it provides images of the radiation emitted from the patient while the CT records anatomical x-rays, showing the same area from another perspective. The PET/CT scan is painless, and the scanner doesn’t emit radiation. There may be several possible risks of undergoing a PET/CT scan if you are pregnant, obese, or unable to fit into the scanning chamber and others. Even before the scan, the patient must take several precautions for a successful scan.

Prepare for PET scan

We understand that it is natural for people to be anxious before the scan due to various reasons. Some are stressed over the process, while others are afraid of the results. Many don’t prefer undergoing an examination, irrespective of the painful part. For some, it would not be a big deal, and we recommend that you keep these things in mind and talk to the doctor about it.

• If you take any medications, create a list including vitamins
• If you have diabetes, then special preparation is required
• If pregnant or breastfeeding
• In case of allergies
• Claustrophobic and do not prefer to be in confined spaces.

Before the Scan

• Eat a low-carbohydrate diet a day before the scan and avoid food and beverages like cereal, pasta, bread, rice, milk and yogurt, fruit and fruit juices, alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and candy. But it can include meat, tofu, non-starchy vegetables like carrots, broccoli, salad greens, and more.
• Do not eat or drink anything for six hours before the scan except for plain water.
• Avoid chewing gum, hard candy, mint, and cough drops.
• Remove all body-piercing jewelry and leave valuables or clothing accessories at home.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Remove dentures, eyeglasses, and hearing aid before the scan.

However, precautions can vary depending on your condition, such as if you have diabetes. There will be special instructions for the patient, as long hours of fasting can drop blood sugar levels. We understand it can be overwhelming for a patient to undergo a medical test. They can reel under many emotions before, during, or after the medical examination. Our team has always focused on improving patients’ experiences and providing them with the best care. Our facility is well-equipped with advanced technology that can help diagnose various conditions. Moreover, our radiologists can present timely results of the scan and recommend how to best move forward to patients. To schedule an appointment at our facility, call us at (405) 477-1100.

• PET Scan
• CT Scan
• Cancer Screening