​What is PET?
PET-CT (Positron emission tomography/Computed tomography) is a type of nuclear medicine procedure that measures the metabolic activity of the cells in the body. PET-CT is an important diagnostic and prognostic tool in cancer treatment.

 

When is a PET-CT recommended?

PET-CT plays a key role almost all through ones cancer journey — from diagnosis to staging, from monitoring to evaluating a patient’s treatment response. The results of a PET-CT help our expert oncologists in identifying anomalies and putting together the best treatment plan, based on the type and stage of cancer.

How does PET-CT work?

Prior to the scan, a radiotracer will be injected into the patient’s vein. This will be followed by a wait of 45-60 minutes during which time tumor cells absorb the radiotracer. A special camera is used to detect the radioactive emissions in the cells and produce images of the metabolic activity in the cells. Those areas with increased radiotracer absorption appear as bright spots — the tumor cells. A CT scan that is carried out simultaneously captures the X-ray images of the internal organs from different angles. A PET-CT scan is a combined result of the PET and CT scans. Any abnormalities can be easily and accurately detected through a PET-CT scan.

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What are the benefits of Discovery IQ PET/CT scanner?

Discovery IQ is a highly trusted PET-CT system among clinicians across the globe. It was designed and engineered to be a scalable, high-performance diagnostic system with the capabilities to produce exceptional image quality for better patient outcomes, while using less dose.

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The advantages of the Discovery IQ PET/CT scanner are:

• Higher sensitivity, better image quality

• Lower dose and faster acquisition of high-clarity images

• Motion correction for clearer images

• Significant reduction of metal artifacts with Smart MAR

• Enhanced patient care, comfort and satisfaction

• Accurate data points to trusted treatment

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What does a PET-CT scan check for?

The PET-CT scan is a medical imaging technique that combines two powerful imaging modalities to provide comprehensive information about the body's cellular activity and anatomical structures. It is used to check for various conditions, including
 

• Cancer: PET-CT scans are widely used in oncology to detect and stage cancer, as cancer cells typically have higher metabolic activity, which is visualized through the PET component of the scan.

• Metastasis: PET-CT helps in identifying whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body (metastasis), which is crucial for treatment planning.

• Evaluation of Treatment Response: It is used to assess the response of cancer to ongoing treatment, helping doctors monitor the effectiveness of therapies.

• Cardiac Conditions: PET-CT can evaluate blood flow to the heart and assess heart muscle function, helping in diagnosing coronary artery disease and other cardiac conditions.

• Neurological Disorders: It aids in the diagnosis of various neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, and brain tumors.

• Infection and Inflammation: PET-CT can identify areas of inflammation or infection in the body, assisting in diagnosing conditions like infection or assessing the spread of inflammation in diseases like vasculitis.

 

In the case of cancer, the patient may be recommended more than one PET-CT scan to:

• Determine whether the cancer has spread (metastasized)

• Assess the effectiveness of the treatment

• Determine if the cancer has returned after treatment (recurred)

• Evaluate the prognosis (outlook) of the cancer
   

PET-CT scans provide valuable information to make accurate diagnoses and develop targeted treatment plans.

How long does a PET scan take?
The entire PET scan process takes about two hours. It can take up to 60 minutes for the body to absorb the injected radiotracer. The actual PET scan takes about 30 minutes. After the test, the patient will need to wait while the technologist reviews the scans to ensure the images are clear.

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What are the risks and side effects of a PET scan?
PET scans are generally safe. The amount of radiation in the radioactive tracer is very low. It doesn’t stay in the body for long. Drink lots of water after a PET scan to help flush the radioactive drug from the body. Let the technician know beforehand if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or are a diabetic.

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Why choose CCA Ludhiana for cancer treatment?

At CCA Ludhiana, we offer the latest advancements in cancer treatment. Armed with the latest technology, including radiotherapy equipment and PET CT scan, our cancer specialists assure you of the best treatment at affordable prices. We have the region’s most comprehensive cancer centre that is integrated with a weekly international tumour board and US doctor's second opinions. You will find Punjab's top cancer doctors — each with decades of experience — only at CCA Ludhiana. Choose CCA Ludhiana as your cancer care provider and be assured of excellent care, the best treatment options, latest cancer treatment technology, and affordable prices.