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PET/CT Frequently Asked Questions
 See a virtual tour of a PET / CT .
What is PET/CT?
PET/CT stands for Positron Emission Tomography/Computed Tomography. These are two separate non-invasive tests that are combined to give your physician information about both the physiological and anatomical appearance of your body, resulting in a more comprehensive diagnosis. PET captures functional images of very small changes in your body’s metabolism caused by the growth of abnormal cells, while CT images simultaneously allow physicians to measure the physical size, shape, and precise location of the diseased tissue or tumor. When the results of the scans are fused together they provide more complete information than either test alone.
What is PET/CT used for?
PET/CT is used to help diagnose a number of different diseases, including cancer, coronary heart disease, and seizure disorders. In cancer applications, PET/CT is used to diagnose cancer, stage its spread, and determine if current therapy methods are working.
Will my insurance cover PET/CT?
Coverage for PET/CT Scans varies by insurance carriers. Please check with your doctor’s office or insurance company to learn about reimbursement specific to your scan.
How much time should I allow?
You should allow approximately 2 hours for your appointment from check-in to completion of the exam. The scan itself takes between 30 and 45 minutes.
Is PET/CT safe?
Yes, PET/CT is a very safe non-invasive procedure. The radioisotope injected into your body will not cause you to feel any different nor will you have any side effects from it. The radiation exposure you will receive from the PET/CT test is similar to receiving two conventional whole-body diagnostic CT scans.
Why is PET/CT not well known?
You have probably heard of CT scans as they have been a popular diagnostic tool for years. PET has also been around since the 1980s, but has recently progressed from research to diagnostic use. The combination of PET/CT has been available since 2003.
Are there alternatives to PET/CT?
Yes and no. There are other exams that you can have performed such as CT, MRI, or X-rays. However, all of these examine only the physical structure of your body, whereas the PET scan looks to see if the cancer is still active in your body. Therefore, these other scans are useful in determining the size and location of a tumor, but none of them can determine the tumor’s viability like PET/CT.
How does the procedure work?
When you arrive for your PET/CT scan you will be registered by our office personnel. They may provide you with a cup of CT contrast to drink for the scan. A nurse or technologist will take you to a prep area where they will ask you some questions about your medical history and explain the test to you. They may obtain a small blood sample to check your blood sugar (glucose) level. Elevated glucose levels (over 200) will necessitate canceling the scan as it can provide false results.
The nurse or technologist will then start an IV line that you will be given an injection of a small amount of radioactive sugar (FDG) through. Diabetic patients need not worry; it would take 1 million doses of FDG to equal the glucose in 1 teaspoon of sugar. You will be asked to rest quietly for about 1 hour as the tracer is distributed throughout your body. The IV line will be removed and you may drink another cup of CT contrast.
A staff member will escort you to the restroom to empty your bladder and ask you to remove any metal or possibly change into a hospital gown. The technologist will position you on the scanning bed as comfortably as possible. The CT will be done first and then you will be moved into the machine very slowly as the PET portion is acquired. The scan takes approximately 30 to 45 minutes. You will be able to leave after the scan.
Do I need to do anything differently after the scan?
You may continue with your normal routine, but we encourage you to drink plenty of fluids and empty your bladder often to help clear the radiation from your system. We also recommend waiting a few hours before spending time with an infant or pregnant woman.
When will I get my results?
When the scan is complete it is sent to a radiologist to read. The interpretation is sent to your physician, typically within two days. Your physician will provide you with the results at your next appointment.
It is extremely important that you follow all of these instructions:
 Nothing to eat or drink (except water) for at least six hours before your scan. This includes gum, mints, cough drops, and Nicorette gum.
Try to keep well hydrated with water unless you are on fluid restrictions.
You may take prescribed medications with water, EXCEPT for diabetic medications and steroids. If any of your medications must be taken with food, ask your doctor whether you should skip your morning dose, take it later in the day, or take it without food on the day of your scan.
PLEASE arrive on time as the personalized tracer you will be given is effective for a limited time.
DO NOT perform any strenuous or vigorous activity (e.g. aerobics, jogging) for at least 24 hours prior to the scan.
If you are extremely claustrophobic or tend to be extremely nervous and fidgety, consult your doctor about prescribing a tranquilizer before arriving for your PET/CT scan. If you do require sedation, PLEASE arrange to have someone drive you home after you test.
Wear comfortable clothing and, if possible, avoid clothing with metal snaps, buttons, and zippers.
If you have had any prior CTs, MRIs, or bone scans that were NOT performed at a Sentara facility, it is helpful to bring a copy of these with you. It will allow the radiologist to read your PET/CT in a more timely manner.
PET/CT Direct Line
757-213-5791
For more information, visit RadiologyInfo, a public information web site developed and funded by the American College of Radiology and the Radiological Society of North America.
PET/CT Scan Locations:
For more information on these locations, select one of the locations listed above from our Where to Go section.
Advanced Imaging Center—Princess Anne, Norfolk
Lake Wright Comprehensive Cancer Center
Sentara CarePlex Hospital, Hampton
Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center
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