After a PET scan, how long does a patient need to wait before using public transportation without setting off radiation detectors?
There is no danger to other travellers on public transportation following a PET scan with due attention to pregnant women and children as in Qn. 7. However, in some countries, radiation detectors in public areas and specific locations such as airports can be inadvertently activated by even small amounts of radiation. Radiation detectors are now more sensitive than ever before. Nonetheless, the isotopes used for PET imaging decay so rapidly that after only 24 hours there is no danger of activating a radiation detector. However, it may be a good idea for the patient to obtain a document from the PET Centre stating that they have undergone a PET/CT scan, in case they are questioned.
