Positron Emission Tomography, or PET, is a popular procedure performed in
the Nuclear Medicine Department. Radiation for this exam comes from the injection of a radioactive isotope. This isotope is tagged with an agent that is different for each exam, as each organ in the body will enhance differently. The imaging method measures and records the amount of radio isotope within the living tissue. Basically, PET scans supply information regarding the function of organs and tissues.

PET technology is a vital tool in the staging and monitoring of cancer patients. It gives Oncologists and Radiologists very important information on the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Today, to provide patients with the most precise diagnostic information the physician may order a PET/CT scan. The CT scan provides excellent detail of all anatomy in a 3-D representation without any superimposition. The PET scan is not as good with anatomy, however it can show organ function in great detail.

Until the past few years PET scanners were only available in huge medical centers or large teaching facilities because they were so expensive. Also, at that time PET was still considered experimental so insurance companies and Medicare did not compensate for the exam. Today PET scanners are pretty readily available and most exams are compensated for.

Currently PET Scanning is used for:

1) Finding and evaluating stages of Cancer

2) Determining progress of Oncology Treatments

3) Checking blood flow to Myocardial Tissues

4) Evaluate signs and symptoms of coronary artery disease

5) Evaluate the Central Nervous System

Since it’s introduction in 1974, PET scanning has improved dramatically.
Today one of the most valuable tools in the diagnosis and treatment of patients is the PET Scan.