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CancerQuest > Introduction to Patient Information > Introduction to Cancer Detection and Diagnosis > PET Scans > PET Scan: The Exam

PET Scan: The Exam

Scheduling
When you are scheduling your exam be sure to mention if you:

• are diabetic
• have asthma
• are breast feeding
• are pregnant or think you are pregnant
• have a fear of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia)
• have previously had an allergic reaction to the tracer used in the exam
• NOTE:You should not schedule any other tests that use radioactive material for the same day

Day of exam
There are special instructions to follow the day of your PET exam:

• Drink plenty of water, but do not eat or drink anything (except water) for 6 hours before your exam
• Take your medications normally and drink them with ample water
• Make sure you arrive at the imaging center on time, the compound used for the scan breaks down rapidly and if you are late, the images may not be as good
• Wear loose fitting clothing
• Do not wear any jewelry; watches, chains, rings, piercings, etc.
• Prepare to be at the center for around 2 ½ hours
• NOTE: If you are a diabetic there are special rules you need to follow before the exam. You should follow your normal daily routine, eat small meals and take your insulin as usual. Your blood sugar should be between 100 and 200 mg/dL and your blood may be drawn to ensure this.

During
A nurse will start an IV and the tracer compound will be injected into a vein. You will be moved to a quiet, dark room where you will lie still for a specified amount of time, usually about 1 hour. During this period your body will completely absorb and distribute the tracer compound. In many cases you will be asked not to speak to prevent the compound from collecting in your tongue and vocal chords. You will then lie down on a padded table that will slide into the large opening in the PET machine. A technologist will position you (most likely with your arms placed above your head) to obtain the most accurate image and you will be asked to lie completely still during the entire scan, any movement may distort the image. The scan may last anywhere from 30 minutes to 1 ½ hours, if you have trouble staying still for long periods of time you may be sedated.

After
You should not be bothered by any side effects after the exam. You will be encouraged to drink plenty of fluids to help flush any remaining tracer from your body. If you were sedated you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home.