Proper preparation and certain precautions are required before undergoing a PET/CT scan.
PET/CT provides valuable information about certain cancers as well as brain and heart conditions by showing and evaluating the metabolic activity of tissues. It may be used in several types of cancer, including prostate, lung, colorectal, lymphoma, breast, thyroid, ovarian, cervical, and testicular cancers. PET/CT can also be used in the evaluation of certain heart conditions.
A PET/CT scan generally involves an acceptable level of radiation exposure, and the amount of radiation should be considered in relation to the diagnostic benefits of the examination.
Do I need to fast before a PET/CT scan?
Yes. Adults are generally advised to fast for at least 12 hours before the scan. For children, 6 hours of fasting is usually sufficient, according to the medical team's instructions.
Can I drink water while fasting?
Yes. Drinking plain water is generally permitted during the fasting period.
What should I eat the day before the scan?
A high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet is generally recommended on the day before the scan.
Can I drink coffee or tea or chew gum?
It is recommended to avoid coffee, malt beverages, chewing gum, candy, mints, fruit juice, cough syrup, and dietary supplements before the scan, unless specifically instructed otherwise by the imaging center.
Should I drink water?
Adequate water intake is generally recommended before and during the examination, unless your doctor has advised you to restrict fluids.
Can I wear any type of clothing?
Wear comfortable clothing without metal components such as metal buttons or zippers. You may be asked to remove jewelry, glasses, and other metal objects before entering the imaging room.
What should I do during the 24 hours before the scan?
Avoid foods such as bread, rice, pasta, potatoes, legumes, and nuts. Chewing gum should also be avoided during the 24 hours before the imaging study.
Foods such as fish, chicken, meat, eggs, butter, dairy products, and salad may generally be consumed as recommended by the imaging center.
Patients with diabetes should pay particular attention to their diet and blood glucose levels before the scan. High blood glucose levels can interfere with the examination, so blood sugar should be carefully controlled under medical supervision.
Dr. Neda Ashayeri
Pediatric Hematologist & Oncologist
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