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PET/CT scans are a type of nuclear medicine imaging commonly used to diagnose and treat different types of cancer, as well as Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, Graves’ disease, and Parkinson’s disease. 

Shared Medical Services provides state-of-the-art PET/CT scans in a mobile unit that visits HRMC weekly. The scan combines the two technologies of Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT) into a fused image that provides the radiologist or radiation oncologist with highly effective imaging of the anatomy and metabolic functions of specific organs, tissue, and bone. This advanced form of imaging and radiology enables doctors to identify structures that are functioning abnormally inside the body, leading to accurate diagnoses.

What to Expect during a PET/CT Scan

You will be given a radioactive tracer for the scan to make the organs more visible. Depending on the nature of the medical problem being examined, you may be asked to drink some contrast material.

During a PET/CT Scan, you will lie on a movable table that moves your body through a large donut-shaped ring. As you pass through the ring, the scanner takes a complete 360-degree picture of you and sends it to a computer. The table moves a small distance, and another picture is taken and sent to the computer. This process is repeated until the computer has enough information to reconstruct a complete image of your internal anatomy.

During the exam, you will hear the sound of the motors and gears. It is important that you lie still because any movement can blur the images. The scan could take 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the part of your body being scanned. After the scan, you will be able to return to your normal activities.

After the exam, the radiologist who reads your scan will report to your physician the test results. Your doctor will then explain the results to you and recommend follow-up actions.

Preparing for a PET/CT Scan

Your doctor will explain the restrictions on food and drink necessary to prepare for your upcoming PET/CT scan. Be sure to let your doctor know if you are allergic to iodine or seafood if you are (or could be) pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding. Inform your doctor of any medications and supplements, including vitamins. You must remove metal items such as jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses, and dentures before the exam.

Scheduling a PET/CT Scan

PET/CT scans must be scheduled by your physician or oncologist by calling the Shared Medical Services toll-free scheduling line at 800-500-4014 Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Your physician’s office may also fax an order to 800-900-8952.

Shared Medical Services bills for PET scans. Before the scan, please check with your insurance provider to ensure coverage and avoid unexpected fees.

Locations

  • Hunt regional center greenville
    Hunt Regional Medical Center Greenville
    • 4215 Joe Ramsey Blvd E, Greenville, TX 75401
    • 903.408.5000
  • Hunt Regional Emergency Medical Center at Commerce
    • 2800 TX-24 Suite A, Commerce, TX 75428
    • 903.886.3161
  • Hunt Regional Emergency Medical Center at Quinlan
    • 738 E. Quinlan Pkwy., Quinlan, TX 75474
    • 903.408.4800
  • Hunt Regional Open Imaging – Greenville
    • 3003 Joe Ramsey Blvd, Greenville, TX 75401
    • 903.455.3330
  • Hunt Regional Open Imaging – Rockwall
    • 909 Rockwall Parkway, Rockwall, TX 75032
    • 469.698.0045