- Positron Emission Tomography/ Computed Tomography (PET/CT) is a hybrid imaging modality that incorporates the use of functional imaging (PET) with anatomical imaging (CT).
- PET/CT has several valuable clinical applications which include early cancer detection and evaluation of treatment response, and the diagnosis of a variety of endocrine, neurological and cardiac conditions.
- F-18 FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) is the PET radionuclide most often used, and the images obtained are a representation of glucose metabolism within the body.
- The glucose scan is highly sensitive for the early detection of malignancies, evaluation of treatment response and for post-treatment follow-up, more so than the conventional imaging modalities.
- F18-FDG is produced in Pretoria.
- Due to the short half-life of the radiotracer, it has to be produced on the same day of the scan, and is couriered to Port Elizabeth via airfreight.
Each study is interpreted by both a Diagnostic Radiologist and Nuclear Physician.
Booking required?
Yes
Branches: Oncology
Preparing for the procedure
- Specific patient preparation is required before a PET/CT scan can be performed – See link: PET-CT Patient Information Form
- Bookings can be made at: Bayradiology Cancer Care. Telephone number: 0413630759
- The PET/CT scanner is situated in Cancer Care (GVI) in 1 Mangold street, Port Elizabeth Cancer Care building.
What to expect during the scan
- An intravenous cannula will be inserted prior to the scan and the blood glucose will be tested.
- Blood glucose level is required to be less than 11 mmol/l.
- FDG is injected in a private cubicle.
- There is a waiting time of +/- 60 minutes for the radiotracer to distribute throughout the body.
- The actual scan will vary in length between 20-30 minutes.