Choosing the Best Center for a PET Scan In Broward County
So, you’ve been to the doctor and they have asked you to get a PET Scan. This may be overwhelming and scary for those unfamiliar. Finding a good diagnostic imaging center for a PET Scan in Broward County is no doubt your priority. Here at MRI Scan & Imaging Center, we take great pride in providing the best diagnostic imaging with the best team possible and the highest level of technology. We also understand that many of our patients in Broward County have questions or concerns related to this exam. Here are the top 5 things you should know about a PET Scan.
- What exactly is a PET Scan?
PET stands for Positron Emission Tomography. This is a diagnostic imaging exam which uses minimal amounts of radiotracers (radioactive materials) along with a special camera and computer which are able to help evaluate your tissue and organ functions. A PET scan/exam can detect a disease in the early stages, even before it is evident in other type of exams.
- What are common reasons why I may need this exam?
PET scans are often used for the following reasons:
- Evaluate if a brain and/or heart are functioning normally
- Detection of cancer
- Determine if an existing cancer has spread
- Assess blood flow to the heart muscle
- Assess the heart and/or the effects of a heart attack or heart condition
- Evaluate abnormalities in the brain such as memory disorders, central nervous system disorders, tumors, and more.
- Should I be concerned about having a PET Scan done?
We are a leader in Broward County as one of the premier diagnostic imaging centers, and understand that the initial reaction of many patients are to feel worried and concerned about having this exam. However, a PET scan is more common than you would think. Taking the proper precautions to make sure you are in good health is a good thing. We make sure that our patients feel at ease and strive to make their experience from start to finish, a pleasant one.
- Will this exam be painful or uncomfortable?
This exam is generally painless and rarely associated with discomfort. The part that may be uncomfortable are the intravenous injections where patients feel a slight pin prick when the needle is inserted in the vein for the intravenous line. There may be a cold sensation when the radioactive material is inserted, but there are usually no other side effects. As far as the radiotracer goes, it has little or no taste. If you are claustrophobic you may feel some anxiety during the scan, so we ask that we are informed ahead of time so we can take proper precautions.
- Who interprets the findings and how will I get the results?
The exam will be interpreted by a radiologist with specialized training in nuclear medicine. They will then send a report to the referring physician who will provide you with the results.
To schedule an exam at our center in Fort Lauderdale, Broward County, call us at: (954) 772-8000 or fill out the form below.
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