PET CT scan in Mumbai
In search of a PET CT scan in mumbai? You can learn everything there is to know about this sophisticated diagnostic tool from this extensive guide. We will explore the meaning of a PET CT scan, its applications, and where to locate trustworthy Mumbai facilities that provide this service.
A PET CT scan: what is it?
Positron Emission Tomography scans, or PET CT scans for short, are used to rule out the possibility of brain disorders and to identify early signs of heart disease and cancer. In addition to combining PET and CT scan data to provide 3D images for a more precise diagnosis, this injectable radioactive tracer uses cutting edge technology to pinpoint the underlying cause of the disease cells.
Healthcare professionals prefer to use the PET CT scan to look for symptoms of:
- cancer, which encompasses thyroid, lung, and breast cancer.
- heart attack, coronary artery disease, and other cardiac conditions.
- diseases of the brain such as Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, dementia, and brain tumors.
In addition to displaying or measuring essential functions like blood flow, oxygen consumption, blood sugar (glucose) metabolism, and diagnostic center, a PET CT scan also identifies the tissues and organs that are malfunctioning. It is also capable of identifying malignant tumor cells, which aids in determining the metastasis of cancer.
Assess the effectiveness of a treatment plan and assist the healthcare provider in implementing any necessary treatment modifications when needed.
What kinds of medical conditions can PET CT scans be used to diagnose?
The following is a list of solid tumors that can be identified with a PET CT scan:
● Brain
● Breast
● Cervical
● Colorectal
● Esophageal
● Head and neck
● Lung
● Lymphatic system
● Pancreatic
● Prostate
● Skin
● Thyroid
What is the PET CT scan procedure
Nuclear medicine exams are performed by physicians on hospitalized and outpatients who are made to lie down on an exam table. The technologist or nurse will place an intravenous (IV) catheter in your hand or arm vein if they deem it necessary. Only injections of radiotracer are used in PET scans.
It takes roughly 30 to 40 minutes to pass through the body and absorb in the area being examined. It will be requested that you rest and refrain from talking or moving. Additionally, it is recommended to consume some contrast material, which localizes in the intestines and aids the radiologist in interpreting the test results.
The process of imaging will involve moving one into the PET/CT scanner. During the imaging, one must remain motionless. The CT scan is performed initially, and then the PET scan. The PET scan may occasionally be followed by an additional CT scan using intravenous contrast.
A CT scan can be completed in less than two minutes, whereas a PET scan requires twenty to thirty minutes.
Depending on the area being scanned, the entire scanning procedure usually takes 30 minutes or less. It may also be necessary to perform additional tests using different tracers or medications. For example, if a patient is being evaluated for heart disease, they might have a PET scan both before and after working out or getting an intravenous drug that raises heart rate.
Should you require an IV line for the procedure, your technologist will typically take it out; if you have another procedure scheduled for the same day, they will leave it in place.
What dangers come with a PET CT scan
For most people, the PET CT scan is a safe test. Unlike all medical tests, it has some risks. It is the duty of the doctor to ensure the benefits of PET CT scan outweighs the risks involved.
● Pregnancy
Only in an emergency should a pregnant woman have a scan. Radiation could be harmful to the growing fetus. Please give advance notice to the department if you will be expecting.
● Breast feeding
Notify the department several days prior to the appointment if you are nursing. If you must stop nursing for any reason after taking the radioactive medication, they will notify you without a doubt. You may need to put away enough expressed milk to last through at least one feeding.
● Radiation
The PET CT scan carries a significant risk of radiation exposure, which may marginally raise the risk of cancer in the future. People are advised to maintain close contact with their doctors because it is important to talk to them if they have any concerns.
● Swelling and Bruising
An individual may experience a minor bruise near the injection site. The radioactive tracer could, nevertheless, leak outside the vein. Although it is an uncommon occurrence, it can result in arm pain and swelling.
● Allergic reaction
People rarely experience an allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer, which typically begins with weakness, perspiration, and breathing difficulties. In the event that you feel ill, notify your radiographer right away.
How does one get ready for a CT scan using PET?
One must refrain from eating for four to six hours prior to the majority of PET CT scans. Water is usually allowed during this period, and patients may be told not to engage in any physically demanding activity for a full day before the scans.
You may need to modify your diet and sugar control if you have diabetes and are unable to skip meals. In that case, your appointment time will be adjusted.
Should you experience claustrophobia during a scan, please get in touch with the department personnel. To ensure that someone is at ease and comprehends what is happening, they can take extra precautions.
The physician can make arrangements for you to receive medication to assist you.
● What is the cost of a PET CT scan in Mumbai
The cost of a PET CT scan in Mumbai can vary depending on the facility, type of scan required, and insurance coverage. However, it typically ranges from ₹30,000 to ₹70,000.
- How long does a PET CT scan take?
The actual scan time for a PET CT scan is usually around 15-20 minutes. However, the entire process, including preparation and injection of the tracer, can take up to an hour.
- What to expect during a PET CT scan?
A small amount of radioactive tracer will be injected into your vein. You will then relax on a table that slides into the PET scanner. The CT scan will follow shortly after. The entire procedure is painless.