Though there are various other imaging diagnostics are available including X rays, CT scan, MRI scan but PET CT scan is a combination of positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT). This is present in a single machine and thus used together to diagnose disease and to check the proper functioning of the organs. 

The procedure is done on an OPD basis that means the patient can go back home after getting the PET CT Scan done. The procedure takes maximum 4 hours which include 1-1.5 hour of waiting time post-injection and 20 minutes of scanning time.  

PET – CT scan is done to look for complex systemic diseases. The following diseases could be identified easily under scan.

• Cancers especially those who are at an early stage are easily identified under PET CT scan.
• A full-body PET CT scan helps diagnose body functions, blood flow, oxygen levels in the body. 
• Early diagnosis of the presence of cancer cells.
• Early diagnosis of location of cancer cells and to identify whether it is spreading or not.
• To formulate a proper and correct diagnosis along with the required treatment plan. 
• It is also used to identify the type of cancer whether it is benign or malignant. 
• It is widely used in diagnosing diseases of cardiac origin, brain disorders.
• It is also used in severe infections.
   

It is advised to have at least 6- 8 hours fasting before the procedure that means you have to get the scan done empty stomach

The PET CT scan procedure should be done cautiously in diabetics. Diabetics are advised to keep their sugar levels under control before getting the scan done. The ideal reading should be below 200 mg/dl. Insulin is not advised at least before 2 hours of getting a scan. However, the patient can take his oral diabetic medication before the scan. Diabetics can take the meal 6 hours before the scan. 

It is advised to tell your doctor regarding any medication you are taking for example of blood pressure, blood sugar so that you could advise you on the right time to take it. 

If you are a pregnant or lactating mother always inform your doctor prior only. 

It is advised to remove your jewelry and dress comfortably in clothes that do not have zips etc. 

You must always inform your doctor if you have any allergies or you are allergic to anything.

Cautions are taken for patients having severe kidney diseases, the creatinine levels need to be under control. 
 

The procedure involves injecting a solution in the vein of the patient which is a mixture of glucose and radioactive material. The organ that is scanned absorb this solution thus becomes highlighted and the doctor can check for the functioning of the organ.

After placing the cannula into the vein, the radiotracer is pushed in the vein, and the patient is advised for at least 1- 1.5 hours in a separate room, within this time the radiotracer is absorbed, after that the scanning is done which only takes maximum 20 minutes. 
 

The patient can return home after a maximum of 3-4 hours once the scanning is done and is advised to drink plenty of water to remove the radioactive substance from the body. You can carry your normal activities, can go back home on your own as it is a painless procedure, you can have your insulin and food after it.

PET CT scans carry the risk of radiation so it is advised not to carry this procedure unnecessarily and should get it done under the advice of your doctor or healthcare provider.