Appointments:  (314) 996-7531

Please call (314) 996-7531 to schedule your appointment.

Hours
Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.

What is a PET scan?

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a non-invasive procedure that can locate abnormal bio-chemistry in a patient. In cancer, changes in bio-chemistry occur before a tumor mass forms.   As a result, PET can often identify the presence of disease earlier than a test that looks for a tumor mass.

PET information is usually used together with CT or MRI information. The PET scan can help identify the presence of abnormal bio-chemistry or disease. CT or MRI can be used to precisely identify the location. 

Why do doctors recommend PET scans?

PET is considered particularly effective in identifying whether cancer is present or not, if it has spread, if it is responding to treatment, and if a patient is cancer free after treatment. PET is considered particularly effective for these types of cancers:

How does a PET scan work?

A PET scan uses radioactive glucose to image biochemistry in your body.

• Cancer cells grow at a very fast rate.
• Growing cells use glucose as a primary source of energy. The faster cells grow, the more glucose is consumed.
• A radioactive form of glucose called FDG is injected for the PET study. The PET scanner detects where the FDG is in the body and produces an image for the radiologist. 

Areas that demonstrate high use of glucose (FDG) can indicate cancer.

How do I prepare for my PET scan?

The day before your exam:

• A low carbohydrate/ high protein diet: Limit the amount of breads, pasta, potatoes, rice and cereals.
• No caffeine.
• No strenuous activity, exercise or long walks.
• Nothing to eat or drink at least 6 hours prior to the exam, this includes gum and hard candy.

Note: Diabetics need to contact the PET center at least three day prior to the exam for instruction relating to blood sugar control.

What happens during a PET scan?

Your blood sugar level will be checked by a small finger stick.  Next, an IV line will be placed in your arm or hand, and you will be injected with a small amount of a radioactive tracer called, FDG, also known as Fluorodeoxyglucose. While this circulates for approximately 45 to 60 minutes, you will rest in a comfortable recliner. Next, you will be placed on the imaging table and a series of small scans will be performed. Imaging times will vary depending on what type of cancer we are scanning for. In general most patients are on the scanner for 40 to 50 minutes.

What happens after my PET scan?

After your PET scan, you may resume normal activities and a normal diet. Your study will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist and a report will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor should receive a written report in 24 to 48 hours. If you would like to obtain a CD of your images, please call (314) 996-5180. To receive a copy of your written report, please call (314) 996-5111 and one will be mailed to you.