Below, you will find the most commonly asked questions (with the
answers) that patients have about PET.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR THE SCAN?
EATING
You are not allowed to eat for 4 hours prior to your appointment. Liquids
can be consumed, but it is important to avoid drinks containing dairy
products, sugar or carbs. Also
refrain from exercising 24 hours prior to your scan.
MEDICATIONS
We will ask what medications you take when you schedule your
appointment. You will be provided further instructions at that time.
If you feel you will need sedation or are a diabetic, contact the
Nuclear Medicine Department for further instructions prior to your
scheduled appointment.
ALLERGIES
There have been no known allergic reactions to the pharmaceuticals utilized
for PET.
CLAUSTROPHOBIC
Most claustrophobic patients are able to tolerate a PET scan. Only the
part of your body being scanned will be in the machine. In addition,
the scanner makes little noise.
ACTIVITY DURING THE SCAN
You should not sleep during a brain scan because sleep changes the way
your brain works. If you are having a whole body scan which does not
include a brain scan, you can sleep. During the scan, we ask that you
are in a quiet, resting state. It is extremely important that you lie
still throughout the scan.
Please bring films or reports relating to this visit
with you if the studies were not performed at Southern Regional Medical
Center.