When is a PET Scan recommended?
Doctors may request a PET-CT scan to:
• Check for cancer in the body
• See if cancer has spread to lymph nodes or other organs
• Measure how well treatment (like chemotherapy or radiotherapy) is working
• Look for cancer that may have come back
• Help plan surgery or radiotherapy more precisely
During your PET-CT scan
• You arrive at the center and check in.
• A small amount of tracer is injected into a vein in your arm.
• You rest quietly for a short time while the tracer spreads in your body.
• You then lie on the scan table, which moves slowly through the scanner.
• The test is painless; you just need to lie still.
The radiology team will be close by, watching you and ready to help if you feel uncomfortable.
How to prepare
Preparation can vary slightly by center, but usually includes:
• Fasting for a few hours before the scan (water is usually allowed)
• Telling the team about your medicines, especially for diabetes
• Bringing previous scans and reports, so the radiologist can compare
• Wearing comfortable clothes and leaving jewellery at home when possible
After your scan
• You can usually go home soon after the scan.
• A specialist radiologist reads your images and prepares a detailed report.
• MelioHealth helps make sure your report reaches your doctor quickly and securely.
• Your doctor will explain the results and next steps.