A PET-CT scan is a powerful diagnostic tool combining Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT) scans to provide detailed insights into your body, particularly for cancer detection and management. While the procedure itself is relatively straightforward, understanding the after care is crucial for your comfort, recovery, and to ensure the best possible results from the scan. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Pet Ct Scan After Care.
What is a PET-CT Scan?
A PET-CT scan merges the strengths of two imaging techniques. The CT scan uses X-rays to create detailed 3D images of your body’s anatomy, showing the structure and shape of organs and tissues. The PET scan, on the other hand, uses a radioactive tracer to highlight areas of metabolic activity at a cellular level. This combination allows doctors to see both the structure and function of tissues and organs in a single scan.
PET-CT scans are performed in radiology departments, usually on an outpatient basis, and are operated by radiographers. The scan itself typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes.
Photograph of a PET-CT scanner
Why are PET-CT Scans Done?
PET-CT scans are valuable in oncology for various reasons:
- Cancer Diagnosis: They can help detect cancer and differentiate between cancerous and non-cancerous conditions.
- Staging Cancer: PET-CT scans determine the size of a tumor and whether it has spread to other parts of the body, which is crucial for staging cancer and guiding treatment decisions.
- Treatment Planning: They assist in deciding if surgery is feasible and in choosing the most appropriate treatment approach for your cancer.
- Monitoring Treatment Response: PET-CT scans can assess how well cancer treatment, such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy, is working.
- Detecting Cancer Recurrence: They can help identify if cancer has returned after treatment.
- Radiotherapy Planning: PET-CT scans are used to precisely plan radiotherapy treatment by accurately pinpointing the tumor location.
- Distinguishing Scar Tissue from Active Cancer: After cancer treatment, sometimes scans show areas that might be residual cancer. PET-CT scans can help determine if this is active cancer or just scar tissue.
Preparing for Your PET-CT Scan
Proper preparation for a PET-CT scan is essential for accurate results. Typically, you’ll need to fast for 4 to 6 hours before the scan, although drinking water is usually permitted. You might also be advised to avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours beforehand.
If fasting poses a problem, especially for individuals with diabetes, it’s vital to contact the radiology department. They can provide specific instructions and may need to adjust your appointment time or dietary guidelines to manage your blood sugar levels effectively.
Claustrophobia can be a concern for some patients undergoing scans. If you are prone to claustrophobia, inform the department staff in advance. They can take measures to ensure your comfort and explain the process thoroughly to alleviate anxiety. In some cases, medication to help you relax can be arranged by your doctor.
What Happens During a PET-CT Scan?
On the day of your scan, you’ll be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove jewelry and metal objects like belts, wired bras, hair clips, and coins, as metal can interfere with the scan images. Clothing with elastic waistbands and no metal, like trousers or skirts, can be helpful as you might not need to remove them.
About an hour before the scan, a radioactive tracer is administered through a cannula, a small plastic tube inserted into a vein in your arm. The radiation dose is minimal. During this hour, it’s important to rest and minimize movement to allow the tracer to distribute throughout your body and be absorbed by your tissues.
In the Scanning Room
When it’s time for the scan, the radiographer will escort you to the scanning room, which houses the PET-CT machine. This machine is large and doughnut-shaped. You’ll typically lie on your back on a couch that slides into the scanner.
Once you are positioned correctly, the radiographer will leave the room but will be able to see and communicate with you via a TV screen or window and an intercom system.
Having the PET-CT Scan
The scan involves the couch moving slowly through the scanner as the machine takes images. The process is painless, but you’ll need to remain still, which can be a bit uncomfortable. If you become stiff or need to move, let the radiographer know. The scanner is not excessively noisy, and in many centers, music can be played to enhance your comfort.
After the scan is complete, the radiographer will return to assist you in getting up.
After Your PET-CT Scan: Comprehensive After Care Guide
Post-scan care is important to ensure your well-being and facilitate the elimination of the radioactive tracer from your body. Here’s a detailed guide on what to expect and how to take care of yourself after a PET-CT scan:
Immediate Aftercare
Immediately after the scan, the radiographer will remove the cannula from your arm. You are then free to eat and drink as usual, unless you are given specific instructions otherwise.
Hydration is Key
Drinking plenty of fluids, especially water, after your PET-CT scan is crucial. This helps to flush the radioactive tracer out of your system more quickly through your urine. Increased fluid intake aids in reducing any residual radiation in your body.
Managing Radiation Exposure
While the radioactive tracer used in PET-CT scans emits a very small amount of radiation, and it diminishes rapidly, there are still some precautions to take for about 6 hours post-scan. Minimize prolonged close contact (within arm’s length) with pregnant women, babies, and young children. This is a precautionary measure to limit their exposure to even trace amounts of radiation. Your radiographer will provide specific advice based on the type of tracer used and the dose administered.
Travel Considerations
If you are planning to travel abroad within a week after your PET-CT scan, it’s advisable to carry your appointment letter or a note from your doctor. Airport security systems often use sensitive radiation detectors that might pick up trace amounts of radiation from the tracer still in your body. Having documentation can help explain this if needed and prevent any unnecessary delays or concerns during airport security checks.
Returning to Normal Activities
In most cases, you can resume your normal activities immediately after a PET-CT scan, unless you have received sedation. If you were given medication to help you relax, you will need someone to drive you home and should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for the rest of the day, as you may feel drowsy. Otherwise, you can generally return to work or your usual routine.
When to Seek Medical Advice After the Scan
PET-CT scans are generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of potential, though rare, side effects. Contact your doctor or the radiology department if you experience any of the following after your scan:
- Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site: A small bruise is common, but increasing pain or swelling could indicate an issue.
- Signs of allergic reaction: Symptoms such as weakness, sweating, difficulty breathing, rash, or itching should be reported immediately. Allergic reactions to the tracer are rare but possible.
- Any other unusual symptoms or concerns: If you feel unwell or have any worries after the scan, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.
Possible Risks
PET-CT scans are considered safe for most individuals, and the benefits of the diagnostic information they provide usually outweigh the risks. However, like all medical procedures, there are some potential risks to be aware of:
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
PET-CT scans are generally avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary due to the potential risk of radiation exposure to the developing fetus. If you are pregnant or think you might be, inform your doctor and the radiology department before the scan.
If you are breastfeeding, you should also inform the department beforehand. They may advise you to stop breastfeeding for a certain period after the scan to avoid any potential exposure of the radioactive tracer to your baby through breast milk. You might need to express and store milk in advance to cover feeding during this period.
Radiation Exposure
Exposure to radiation from a PET-CT scan carries a very small increased risk of developing cancer in the future. The radiation dose is low and comparable to that from other common medical imaging procedures. If you have concerns about radiation exposure, discuss them with your doctor.
Bruising and Swelling
A small bruise at the injection site is common and usually resolves quickly. In rare cases, the radioactive tracer might leak outside the vein, causing swelling and pain, but this is uncommon.
Allergic Reaction
Allergic reactions to the radioactive tracer are rare but can occur. Symptoms can include weakness, sweating, and breathing difficulties. Radiographers are trained to recognize and manage allergic reactions promptly.
Getting Your Results
A specialist doctor will analyze your PET-CT scan images, and you can expect to receive your results within 1 to 2 weeks. Results are not typically given at the time of the scan.
Waiting for scan results can be an anxious time. Ask your doctor or nurse about the expected timeframe for receiving your results and who to contact if you haven’t heard back within that period. Having support from friends, family, or specialist nurses can be helpful while you wait. Cancer Research UK nurses also offer information and support via their helpline.
More Information
For further information about tests, treatment, and support related to cancer, numerous resources are available. Your healthcare team is your best point of contact for personalized advice and support related to your PET-CT scan and overall health.
