PEAT- Positron Emission Tomography

Positron Emission Tomography (PET) is a medical imaging technique that uses radioactive tracers to produce three-dimensional images of the body. PET scans are commonly used to detect and evaluate cancer, heart disease, and neurological disorders. During a PET scan, a patient is injected with a small amount of a radioactive tracer, which emits positrons, a type of subatomic particle. As the tracer decays, it emits gamma rays, which are detected by the PET scanner to create detailed images of the patient's internal organs and tissues.

PET scans are a non-invasive diagnostic tool that allows doctors to evaluate the metabolic activity of tissues and organs in real-time. They can help identify abnormalities that are not visible with other imaging techniques, such as X-rays or CT scans. PET scans are especially useful in oncology because they can detect cancerous cells at an early stage, allowing for earlier treatment and better outcomes. PET scans are also used to monitor the effectiveness of cancer treatments and to detect recurrent tumors.

PET scans are a safe and painless procedure that typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour. Prior to the scan, patients are instructed to fast for several hours and avoid strenuous activity. After the tracer is injected, patients are asked to lie down on a table and remain still for the duration of the scan. PET scanners are designed to minimize radiation exposure, and the amount of radiation used in a PET scan is typically lower than that of a CT scan or X-ray. Overall, PET scans are an important diagnostic tool that helps doctors detect and monitor a wide range of medical conditions.