Services
PET Scan
At Radiology Associates of Venice, Englewood, and Sarasota, our state-of-the-art PET/CT scans combine highly sensitive positron Emission Tomography (PET) with Computerized Tomography (CT) to pinpoint cancer and other conditions with unmatched accuracy. In just one 30-minute, painless full-body scan, our advanced imaging detects abnormal cell growth and reveals the exact location, size, and shape of tumors, empowering your physician to make informed treatment decisions quickly. Don’t wait for answers when it comes to your health.
Scheduled your PET scan today at one of our convenient locations and take control of your diagnosis.
Call (941) 488-7781 now to book your appointment!
What is a PET/CT Scan?
In one continuous full-body scan (usually about 30 minutes), PET captures images of miniscule changes in the body’s metabolism caused by the growth of abnormal cells, while CT images simultaneously allow physicians to pinpoint the exact location, size and shape of the diseased tissue or tumor.
Essentially, small lesions or tumors are detected with PET and then precisely located with CT.
Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computerized Tomography (CT) are both standard imaging tools that allow physicians to pinpoint the location of cancer within the body before making treatment recommendations.
The highly sensitive PET scan detects the metabolic signal of actively growing cancer cells in the body and the CT scan provides a detailed picture of the internal anatomy that reveals the location, size and shape of abnormal cancerous growths.
Benefits of PET/CT?
There are tremendous benefits of having a combined PET/CT scan:
- Earlier diagnosis
- Accurate staging and localization
- Precise treatment and monitoring
With the high-tech images that the PET/CT scanner provides, patients may be able to avoid other unnecessary procedures. A PET/CT image also provides early detection of the recurrence of cancer, revealing tumors that might otherwise be obscured by scar tissue that results from surgery and radiation therapy, particularly in the head and neck.
In the past, difficulties arose from trying to interpret the results of a CT scan done at a different time and location than a PET scan, due to the fact that the patient’s body position had changed. The combination PET/CT provides physicians a more complete picture of what is occurring in the body – both anatomically and metabolically – at the same time.
What Should I Expect?
Difficult questions deserve answers, and taking a “wait and see” approach is sometimes unacceptable. A PET scan helps answer those tough questions.
Your PET scan will produce a “picture” of how your body’s cells are functioning, whereas an x-ray, CT scan, or MRI produce a picture of bones, organs and tissues.
Your PET scan will help you and your physician make a more informed decision about your diagnosis and treatment path.
Some Hints to Prepare You for Your Scan:
- Dress comfortably and warmly. Scanner rooms can sometimes be cool.
- Avoid eating anything for at least six hours before your scan (this includes sugar-free gum, mints, candy and beverages other than water).
- No strenuous exercise the day of your exam (example: working out, jogging, etc.).
- Please bring a copy of your most recent CT, X-Ray, or MRI films with you on the day of your PET scan if available.
- Be prepared to sit quietly for at least one hour after being injected with the radioactive dose.
- Drink lots of water the day before and after your exam.
Procedure
A PET scan is completely painless and has no side effects. After fasting for 6 hours, you will receive an injection of a trace amount of radioactive glucose, which is distributed throughout the body.
About 60-90 minutes after the injection, you will be asked to empty your bladder. Images will then be taken of your body as you lie still on the scanner bed.
How Long Will the Scan Take?
Please allow 1 hour to 1 ½ hours for your appointment. This time includes pre-injection prep time, post injection resting period to allow proper uptake of the injection into the cells of your body, and actual scan time on the PET scanner. The results are then interpreted by a trained nuclear medicine physician or radiologist and sent to your referring physician.
Diabetics
If you are diabetic, please call the facility for special instructions
After My PET Scan
When the PET scan is done, make sure to drink plenty of water or other fluids throughout the day.
Results of My PET Scan
Your PET scan results will be reported to your referring physician within 1-2 business days. Please contact your physician to discuss your PET scan results.
Patient Preparation
To ensure the most accurate results from your PET/CT scan at Radiology Associates of Venice, Englewood, and Sarasota, proper preparation is essential. The following guidelines will help you get ready for your appointment, ensuring a smooth and effective imaging process.
Diet
Fasting
Medications
Exercise
Prior Imaging Studies
Appointment
Sedation
Clothing
Children
What to Expect
Post Procedure Instructions
Amyloid PET Scan: Advanced Diagnostic Imaging for Neurodegenerative Brain Conditions
The Amyloid Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan is a state-of-the-art nuclear medicine imaging technique that detects amyloid-beta plaques in the brain, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease and certain other neurodegenerative disorders. By providing critical insights into the underlying pathology of cognitive impairment, Amyloid PET Scans enhance diagnostic accuracy and support early intervention. Below is a detailed overview of the clinical benefits of this advanced imaging modality:
Enhanced Diagnostic Precision
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- Identifies Alzheimer’s Pathology: Detects amyloid plaques, a key biomarker of Alzheimer’s disease, enabling differentiation from other causes of cognitive decline, such as frontotemporal dementia or vascular dementia.
- Clarifies Ambiguous Cases: Provides objective evidence in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or atypical presentations, aiding in accurate diagnosis when clinical symptoms alone are inconclusive.
Supports Early Detection and Intervention
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- Early-Stage Diagnosis: Identifies amyloid accumulation before significant cognitive decline, allowing for earlier therapeutic interventions that may slow disease progression.
- Clinical Trial Eligibility: Assists in identifying candidates for Alzheimer’s disease clinical trials targeting amyloid-related pathology, offering access to cutting-edge treatments
Guides Personalized Treatment Planning
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- Tailored Management: Confirms or rules out Alzheimer’s disease, enabling neurologists to develop targeted treatment plans, including pharmacological and lifestyle interventions.
- Informs Prognosis: Provides valuable information about disease progression, supporting patient and family counseling for long-term care planning.
Non-Invasive and Safe Procedure
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- Utilizes a radiotracer (e.g., Florbetapir, Flutemetamol, or Florbetaben) injected intravenously, which binds specifically to amyloid plaques and is visualized using PET imaging.
- Involves minimal radiation exposure, with the tracer safely cleared from the body shortly after the procedure.
- Well-tolerated, with a low risk of adverse reactions, ensuring patient comfort and safety.
Why Choose RAVE for Amyloid PET Imaging?
At RAVE, our nuclear medicine department leverages advanced PET technology and a multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff to deliver precise and reliable results. We are committed to providing compassionate care and seamless coordination with referring clinicians to optimize patient outcomes.
The Amyloid PET Scan represents a powerful tool in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, offering hope through early and accurate diagnosis. Contact RAVE’s nuclear medicine team to learn how this innovative imaging solution can support your diagnostic needs.