New PET/CT Scanner
Our new
Siemens PET/CT scanner is the world’s first high definition PET
platform and is at the cutting edge of this technology. It is a
nuclear medicine imaging technique which produces 3D colour
pictures of processes in the body that are combined with CT X-rays
to create highly specific and exact images.
PET/CT is advantageous compared with other
types of scans as it gives consultants a state-of-the-art visual
representation of how a body part is working, rather than simply
what it looks like.
It’s most important use is in the field of
oncology, for the detection and the spread of cancer. Common
conditions which can be investigated include:
- * response detection for chemotherapy and
radiotherapy
- * evaluating some brain and heart
abnormalities
As well as superb image quality, less than 48
hour turn around time for results; a routine whole body scan can be
done in five minutes. Its wide bore and short tunnel is ideal
for claustrophobic or bariatric patients and allows better
positioning of radiotherapy devices such as breast boards.
How does it work?
A radioactive substance called 18-FDG, a
radiolabelled glucose (or occasionally a different agent), is
injected into a vein, usually in the arm. You then have to wait for
the FDG to be taken up by the cells in the body. This takes 60-90
minutes for a body scan.
Abnormal cells in the body take up the FDG
more rapidly than normal cells. This property is used to detect
disease. You will be having a low dose CT scan at the same time.
This is used to improve the quality of the PET images, and to aid
accurate location of areas of disease.
Are there
any risks?
There are no side effects from this injection.
The test is quite safe except for a possible effect on the baby in
pregnant women. The test is not advised if you are pregnant or are
breast feeding. The amount of radioactivity injected is relatively
small and has a half life of 110 minutes. Most of it is passed out
through the kidneys.
How long will the test
take?
The scan itself will take 20-40 minutes
depending on the area to be scanned.
Results
Your test will be interpreted promptly by a
Nuclear Medicine Consultant and a Radiologist. The results will be
forwarded to your doctor in time for your next scheduled
appointment. He/she will inform you of the results. It usually
takes between one and three days to report and deliver the result
to your
doctor.
Consultants reporting
Professor Adil Al-Nahhas
Professor Keith Britton
Dr Sameer Khan
Dr Sheila Rankin
Where to find us
PET/CT scanner
The London Clinic - Eighth floor
20 Devonshire Place
London W1G 6BW
Contact details
Nuclear Medicine Department
T 020 7535 5544
F 020 7535 5547
petct@thelondonclinic.co.uk