PET/CT Scan

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a nuclear medicine scan that uses a radioactive sugar solution to create images of how your organs and tissues function and to identify normal vs. abnormal (cancer) cells. When the sugar solution concentrates in areas of the body, the PET scan picks up the pattern of radioactivity and creates 3-dimensional images. Different colours and degrees of brightness in a PET scan image represent different levels of organ and tissue function. Cancer cells require more sugar to function and appear brighter in a PET scan image.

To improve the accuracy of the diagnosis, a PET/CT scan integrates a CT (Computed Tomography) scanner. The result is a fusion of two sets of images: One that depicts the functional images of abnormal cells (PET), and the other demonstrates the structure of the tissues and organs (CT). The combination of these images will improve the physician’s ability to determine exactly where in the body the changes are taking place.

To ensure accurate results for your PET/CT scan, please follow these important preparation guidelines: 

• The evening before your scan, do not consume sugary drinks or foods, such as juice, soda, rice, pasta, white bread, or baked goods. For the whole day prior to your scan, choose higher protein foods, such as nuts, seeds, meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, beans, and vegetables. 
• Discontinue vitamins, supplements, and caffeine the evening before your scan. You may take your regular medications unless they contain caffeine. 
• Do not exercise for 12 hours before your scan and minimize your physical activity for the day prior to your scan. 
• Do not eat or drink anything other than plain water for 6 hours prior to your scan. 
• Wear loose, comfortable layers of clothing free of metal buttons and zippers. 

The imaging process takes approximately 30 minutes, and you can communicate with the technologist throughout your PET/CT scan. 

Before and during the scan, you can expect the following: 

• Complete a consent form and questionnaire. 
• We will measure your blood sugar level using a glucometer. 
• Our team will inject a radioactive sugar solution called FDG (18-Fluoro-deoxyglucose) into your bloodstream intravenously, and you will rest for 45 minutes to allow the solution to distribute throughout your body. 
• Please lie as still as possible during the scan. 

You can use the WELL Clinics website to find a PET/CT Scan clinic near you. If you have a referral or requisition, select the button below to book an appointment.

If you don’t have a referral or requisition but would like to request a PET/CT scan, book with your family doctor. Or use our clinic map to find a primary care clinic or telehealth service and request a referral.