PET, or positron emission tomography, is a type of medical imaging that uses a radioactive substance to create images of the body's organs and tissues. PET scans are used to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders.

What is PET in Medical Terms?

Benefits of PET Scans

* PET scans provide detailed images of the body's organs and tissues, allowing doctors to identify abnormalities that may not be visible on other types of scans. * PET scans can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including cancer, heart disease, and brain disorders. * PET scans can be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for a variety of conditions.

Risks of PET Scans

* PET scans involve exposure to radiation, which can increase the risk of developing cancer. * PET scans can cause side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and headaches. * PET scans can be expensive.

How to Prepare for a PET Scan

* Before your PET scan, you will be asked to fast for a period of time. * You may be given a sedative to help you relax during the scan. * You will be injected with a radioactive substance, which will be absorbed by the tissues and organs in your body. * You will then be placed in a PET scanner, which will detect the radioactive substance and create images of your body.

What to Expect During a PET Scan

* A PET scan typically takes about 30 minutes to complete. * You will lie on a table that is moved through the PET scanner. * The PET scanner will make a clicking sound as it takes images of your body. * You may experience some discomfort during the scan, such as nausea, vomiting, or headaches.

After Your PET Scan

* You will be able to go home after your PET scan. * You may experience some side effects from the radioactive substance, such as nausea, vomiting, or headaches. These side effects should go away within a few days. * Your doctor will review the results of your PET scan and discuss them with you.