Menu

Positron Emission Tomography - Computed Tomography (PET/CT)

PET/CT (Positron Emission Tomography / Computed Tomography) is a type of scan using a nuclear medicine test (PET) fused onto a CT to see different types of diseases and where they are in your body. This is done by injecting a small amount of radioactive material, then waiting about an hour to allow it to work and placing you on the scanner for 10 – 20 minutes. The entire process usually takes between 1½ to 2 hours to complete.

The new SIEMENS PET/CT Unit at Cabell Huntington Hospital.

Cabell Huntington Hospital and Edwards Comprehensive Cancer Center have a highly advanced Siemens Biograph Vision PET/CT scanner that can accommodate patients weighing up to 500 pounds and offers PET/CT Imaging for a variety of conditions, including:

  • Cancer
  • Brain Tumors
  • Dementia
  • Alzheimer’s
  • Neuroendocrine Tumors
  • PSMA (Prostate Cancer)
How to Prepare for your PET/CT:
  • Do NOT eat or drink anything for at least 6 hours before your scan. Plain water is the only exception. No artificial sweeteners, flavored water, coffee, mints, chewing gum, etc.
  • Do NOT take diabetic medications within 6 hours of your scan. *See Notes to Diabetic Patients
  • Do NOT take vitamins or any liquid or chewable medications within 6 hours of your scan.
  • Do NOT smoke or use tobacco or nicotine products for at least 12 hours before your scan.
  • Do NOT exercise 24 hours before your scan.
  • Do NOT bring pregnant women or small children with you on the day of your scan; this will prevent undue exposure to those most sensitive to radiation.
  • Do eat a low carbohydrate/high protein diet the day before your scan; meats, cheese, eggs, and green vegetables are preferred. Avoid breads, fruit, pasta, sweets, and starchy foods.
  • Do drink plenty of water before and after your scan.
  • Do take your normal (non-diabetic) medication with water only.
  • Do wear warm, comfortable clothing, avoiding anything with metal.
  • Do arrive 15 minutes early to allow for registration; the medication is ordered & timed specifically for your test.
Notes to Diabetic Patients:
  • If possible, stop taking Metformin medications 2 days prior to your test.
  • Your Blood Glucose Level MUST BE UNDER 200 mg/dL for your scan to be completed.
  • You may want to have your scan scheduled 6 hours after you have eaten breakfast and taken your injection. If so, please let us know as soon as possible to avoid any scheduling delays.