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Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography (PET CT) Scan

A PET CT scan combines positron emission tomography (PET), which shows cell or metabolic functions, with computed tomography (CT), a complex x-ray system that creates a three-dimensional image of organs, bones and tissues in your body.

Main uses:

  • More accurately detect cancer to help determine treatment options and monitor effectiveness of treatment.
  • Detect neurological and cardiac conditions.
  • Diagnose and treat epilepsy, dementia and movement disorders.

How it works:

  • Three-dimensional scan of a portion of your body, or your whole body, if needed.
  • Provides a more thorough picture of organs and tissues in the body than other scans.
  • Enables medical teams to pinpoint the location of a cancer and better distinguish malignant cancers from benign growths.
  • Allows decision-making without invasive examinations or exploratory surgery.
PET CT Scan
  1. How to prepare
  2. Risks
  3. Service location
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1. How to prepare

  • Bring your health card with you.
  • Absolutely no food, coffee, tea, juice, gum, or candies six hours prior to your arrival time (drink plain water only).
  • Take prescribed medication as usual except for diabetic or syrup medications (diabetic patients will receive instructions).
  • You will receive specific instructions prior to your scan.
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2. Risks

The use of a radioactive sugar in the bloodstream, combined with a CT scan, exposes the patient to much larger amounts of radiation than normal x-rays. 

If you are pregnant (or think you might be), inform your physician and the imaging staff before the procedure.

You will be slightly radioactive for several hours, so you should stay 5-6 feet (2 meters) away from an infant (or anyone who is pregnant) after you leave.

For more about CT scan risks, see Related Items, below.

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3. Service location

In Saskatchewan, service is available in one location:

  • PET CT Department
    Royal University Hospital, Ground floor, 
    103 Hospital Drive, Saskatoon
    Phone: 306-655-3340

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