Whats involved in the procedure?
During a PET scan, a patient receives an injection of a small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) into their bloodstream. There is no danger from this injection. The radiation exposure associated with PET is similar to that of conventional CT scanning. Next, the patient will wait about an hour while the injection is distributed through their body. Then the patient will lie on a table, keeping their head still, that will slowly pass through the scanner. The entire visit lasts about two to three hours. The actual procedure is safe with no side effects, and lasts about forty-five minutes. Typically, the patient will be asked not to eat or drink anything after midnight the night before their appointment.
