PET-CT  (Positron Emission Tomography)

Patients who receive a breast cancer diagnosis may undergo a PET-CT scan (Positron Emission Tomography/Computerised Tomography) to detect spread of cancerous cells inside their body. PET is an imaging procedure which uses small amounts of radioactive tracers to help diagnose, locate and assess a disease. The functional PET images are overlaid with high definition anatomical CT images. 

This technology determines whether cancer has spread to the lymph nodes (typically in the axilla) or other parts of the body such as the skeleton (metastatic breast cancer). Specialists may also perform a PET-CT scan on patients with metastatic breast cancer to gauge treatment response or if they suspect a recurrence of a previous breast cancer.

CT is a safe and routine procedure. It may be necessary to have an injection of contrast for the CT component of the scan. You will be asked questions regarding any previous iodine contrasts reactions prior to any scan being performed. 

What to Expect

Before

You need a referral from your specialist to be able to book an appointment for this scan.

You will be advised when you make your appointment on any necessary preparations for your scan.

All patients are required to present 15 minutes prior to their appointment time in order to complete all relevant paperwork. 

During

The scan itself takes approximately 20-40 minutes, but you will need to allow 2-3 hours for the entire PET-CT appointment. 

When you arrive, you will be given a questionnaire to complete. A Molecular Imaging Technologist will explain the entire process, answer any questions or concerns you may have and make sure you are comfortable. 

You will be asked to change into a gown and remove metallic objects such as jewelery and hearing aids.

An IV line will be placed in your arm and the tracer is injected through the line. After the injection, depending on the type of tracer, you may have to wait up to one hour before you are ready for your images.

The PET scanner detects the radiation released from the radioactive injection and uses this to create pictures of your body. The CT scan will image the anatomy and alteration in structures related to disease. 

After

The amount of radioactivity administered from the PET scan is small and will be flushed out of your system by the end of the day. However, because it takes a few hours to leave your system, we suggest you minimise contact with others (especially children and pregnant women) for 4 hours following your scan, 

You can resume your normal activities and diet after examination. Drink plenty of fluids for the rest of the day, as this will help clear any remaining tracer from your body. 

The results of your scan will be sent to your doctor, electronically, as soon as possible. If you require urgent results, please let the receptionist and the technologist know. You can also request a copy of your results.