PET CT Scan

Hi Mandy

Welcome to the Online Community here at Macmillan. I hope you find it a helpful place to access support and ask questions. My name is Vanessa, and I am one of the information nurses.

PET- CT scans use a combination of a PET scan and a CT scan to give a detailed three-dimensional picture of your body’s internal structures and tissues.

PET scans require the injection of a small amount of radioactive substance, known as a tracer. The PET scan can pick up this tracer as it moves through your body, allowing it to create detailed images.

You are asked to rest quietly for around one hour after the tracer is injected to allow the tracer to begin to circulate the body. General advice is that during this waiting time you should try to relax, avoid talking and not move around too much.

It may be possible for your daughter to stay with you, but this would need to be checked with the department where the scan is to be undertaken.

The PET-CT scanner is shaped like a large doughnut and the couch on which you will be asked to lie slowly moves through it. It is different to the scanner used in an MRI which is more like a cylinder in which you lie. As such its likely to be less claustrophobic.

If, however you are concerned about feeling claustrophobic you can contact the department where you are due to have the scan and discuss this with them. This is best done in advance of the scan so that they can reassure you and potentially arrange the prescription of additional medication to help you relax if needed.

The link provided above about PET-CT scans also includes a short video about what to expect when having the scan.

I hope you find this information helpful. You can also always call one of our nurses directly if you want to talk over your concerns or require any further support.

Take care

Vanessa G, Cancer Information Nurse Specialist 

You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or send us an email. 

Ref VG/JD