PET-CT Scanning

What is a PET-CT scan?

A PET-CT scan is a type of medical imaging that combines two imaging techniques: positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT). PET uses radioactive tracers to show how organs and tissues are working, and CT uses X-rays to create detailed images of the body’s structures.

Where does it come from?

Ultrasound imaging, also known as sonography, finds its origins in the principles of sound waves and their interactions within the human body. This non-invasive medical imaging technique harnesses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of internal organs, tissues, and structures. The concept’s historical foundation can be traced back to early experiments on sound wave propagation and the piezoelectric effect, which allows certain materials to generate electric charges under mechanical stress.

The application of ultrasound in medicine took significant strides in the mid-20th century, with the development of the first medical ultrasound scanner, initially used for brain tumor detection. Since then, continuous advancements in transducer technology and imaging methods have made ultrasound a versatile and indispensable tool in healthcare. It serves diverse diagnostic purposes, from assessing fetal development during pregnancy to visualizing the body’s internal anatomy and monitoring various medical conditions, all while offering the benefits of safety and real-time imaging without exposure to ionizing radiation.

How does it work?

• Before the scan, you will be injected with a small amount of radioactive tracer. The tracer will travel throughout your body and accumulate in areas where cells are more active. For example, cancer cells are more active than normal cells, so they will take up more of the tracer.
• The PET scanner detects the radiation emitted by the tracer and creates images of your body. The CT scanner then takes X-ray images of your body. The two images are combined to create a detailed image of your body, showing which areas are more active.

Applications of PET-CT scan:

PET-CT scans are used to diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions, including:

• Cancer
• Heart disease
• Neurological disorders
• Infections

Types of ultrasound:

There are two main types of ultrasound:

• B-mode ultrasound: This is the most common type of ultrasound. It produces two-dimensional (2D) images of the body.
• Doppler ultrasound: This type of ultrasound uses sound waves to measure the flow of blood through the blood vessels.

Benefits and risks of PET-CT scan:

PET-CT scans are a safe and effective procedure. The benefits of PET-CT scans generally outweigh the risks. However, there are a few potential risks associated with PET-CT scans, including:

• Radiation exposure: PET-CT scans use a small amount of radiation. However, the amount of radiation exposure is generally considered to be safe.
• Allergic reaction: The radioactive tracer used in PET scans can cause an allergic reaction in some people.
• Pregnancy: PET-CT scans are not recommended for pregnant women, as the radiation could harm the fetus.

After the X-Ray Imaging

After an ultrasound, you can generally resume your normal activities. There are no special instructions to follow after an ultrasound. You can eat, drink, and take any medications as usual.

Who should not have a X-Ray Imaging?

Ultrasound is a safe and non-invasive procedure, so there are very few people who should not have one. However, there are a few cases where ultrasound may not be recommended, such as:

• People with severe burns or open wounds: The ultrasound transducer may not be able to adhere to the skin properly, and the heat from the transducer could cause further damage.
• People with certain skin conditions: Some skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis, can make it difficult to get a clear ultrasound image.
• People with internal bleeding: Ultrasound waves can interfere with the clotting process, so ultrasound may not be recommended for people with internal bleeding.