Details.
Uses a small amount of radioactive tracer, most commonly 18FDG, injected into an arm vein to display normal and abnormal metabolic patterns. PET images are combined with CT images acquired during the same examination. A doctor's referral and an appointment are required. Bring your request form, completed questionnaires, relevant previous imaging, Medicare and concession cards, and any medication needed on the day. You must fast for at least 6 hours before the examination and may drink water only. The examination includes 45 to 60 minutes for tracer uptake and approximately 15 to 25 minutes of scanning. A diagnostic CT scan may be performed immediately afterwards. Allow approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, including preparation time. Notify Lake Imaging about diabetes, pregnancy, breastfeeding, caring for a small child, or other conditions that may affect the scan. There are generally no precautions after the procedure, and normal activities can usually resume immediately.