PET/CT

What to Expect During the Procedure
At Radiology Associates of Tallahassee, our patient receives an intravenous injection of radioisotope in the arm or hand. This feels like a blood test. Our patient then relaxes in a reclining chair in a quiet, dimly lit room for 45-60 minutes to allow circulation of the isotope. We then ask our patient to lay on the table on his/her back. Next, our scan table slides through the large opening, sometimes called a “donut hole”, acquiring images for about 30 minutes. Our patients will feel nothing and hear nothing, as this procedure is very quiet and easy to tolerate. There is also no breath holding required during this procedure. Upon completion, patients may resume normal activities. Reports will be sent to the referring physician within 5 days. You may contact your referring physician for any information pertaining to the findings. Thank you for choosing Radiology Associates of Tallahassee.

How Should I Prepare?
In preparation for this procedure we ask our patients to have nothing to eat 6 hours prior to this exam. Our patients may have water (no coffee, no flavored water). We also ask that our patients stop all diabetic medications for 6 hours prior to exam. No cough syrups, cough drops or hard candy. A high protein, low carbohydrate diet is recommended 24 hours before exam. Please avoid strenuous physical exercise 24 hours prior to exam. At Radiology Associates of Tallahassee, our scan room maintains a temperature of 70 degrees; it may be a good idea to dress warmly. Our patients will not need to change into a gown.

What to Expect After the Procedure
As a follow up to this procedure, we ask that you hydrate well. We also suggest you empty your bladder frequently for 24 hours. Please avoid close contact with babies and pregnant women 6 hours following the exam. No driver is needed following this procedure.

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PET/CT
Joyce McElroy 9 years of service