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PET/CT

Get a PET Scan at Touchstone Medical Imaging

A PET/CT scan is different from other imaging tests by providing insights into the function of an organ or tissue. This is important and unique because disease processes often begin with functional changes.

How It Works

A PET/CT (Positron emission tomography) is a non-invasive exam that uses small amounts of radioactive materials called radiotracers.

Find A Touchstone Imaging center offering PET/CT appointments near you!

Reasons for PET/CT

PET/CT scans are typically performed to evaluate tissue and organs for the presence of disease, as well as to determine if the disease presence is effecting the organs’ functions. PET/CT scans are most commonly used to detect cancer and evaluate the effectiveness of a cancer treatment. However, PET scans are not limited to cancer diagnostics and include:

  • Diagnosing and evaluating brain deterioration and mental function for diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease, brain tumors, and Epilepsy.
  • Evaluate blood flow to the heart and determine the effectiveness of treatments to improve blood flow associated with heart attack, coronary artery disease, or other heart problems.
  • Identify lung masses or lesions

Patient Reviews

Our patients say it best. Touchstone Imaging provides welcoming, comforting outpatient facilities with friendly and helpful staff.

Front office staff was extremely friendly and helpful. Technician was absolutely wonderful. Extremely friendly, kept me informed during the entire process of what she was doing and what would be happening next.
Tina J.
I had to take my 11-year-old in for an MRI of his knee. It was one of the best experiences we’ve had at a medical office in a long time. Everyone was friendly, informative, and professional.
Jodi E.
I had to get a brain MRI back in November. The check in process was fast and friendly. I didn’t have to wait long before being taken to the back to get prepped for my procedure. The staff made me feel at ease and the environment is very calming and tranquil. The MRI tech checked on me constantly during the procedure and kept me informed as to which part of the exam we are completing. I can’t remember her name but she was very nice and pleasant. If I ever have to get another diagnostic test, I will be returning here.
Brian V.
Everyone was excellent! I was acknowledged and welcomed when I entered the building. Front staff were professional and courteous when discussing paperwork. Friendly smiles. My technician impressed me as being highly trained in her field. Her personal and professional skills are awesome. Enjoyed something I wasn’t looking forward to.
Evangelina B.
Friendly staff. I called and got an appointment that fit my schedule. Quick check in. Relatively short wait time compared to a lot of medical facilities. The technician was friendly, gave clear instructions and made me feel comfortable. I was out in less than an hour.
Wendy B.
Great place, people, and atmosphere was awesome. The guy that brought me to the back had me laughing the whole way. They checked in on me a few times in the MRI machine to make sure I was doing ok and it made me feel more comfortable. I would recommend this place to anyone needing an MRI done.
Jon C.
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Touchstone imaging patient checking in

Choose accurate imaging and convenient service with Touchstone

Touchstone Medical Imaging delivers advanced PET/CT services in a compassionate environment, with processes in place to ensure convenient service and prompt results. No matter what brings you to us, our technologists will guide you seamlessly through your appointment for a reassuring experience. Our team of fellowship-trained, subspecialty radiologists will give your doctors the clarity they need for next steps in your treatment plan.

With convenient, curbside parking that eliminates the need to navigate a complex hospital system to obtain your PET/CT scan and costs up to 60% less than hospital-based imaging, Touchstone makes it easy for you to get the answers you need.

PET/CT Frequently Asked Questions

What happens during a PET/CT scan?

A technologist will insert an intravenous (IV) catheter into a vein in your hand or arm and inject a radiotracer. There are no side effects associated with the injection. It will take approximately 60 minutes for the radiotracer to travel through your body and to be absorbed by the organ or tissue being studied. During this time, you will be asked to rest quietly, avoiding excessive movement, or talking. You may be asked to drink some contrast material that will localize in the intestines and help the radiologist interpret the study.

You will be positioned on an examination table and moved into the PET/CT scanner and the imaging will begin. You will need to remain still during imaging. The PET/CT images will take 20-30 minutes to complete.

You will be free to leave the facility and resume normal activities as your health permits.  A radiologist reads your PET/CT, and the results are reported directly back to your doctor.

How should I prepare for a PET scan?

The day before your PET/CT appointment, eat a high protein, low carb diet, and do not perform any strenuous activity 24 hours before the exam.

On the day of your PET/CT scan, do not eat, or drink (except water) for six hours prior to your scan. You may take your regularly scheduled medications. If you are diabetic, please contact the facility for additional instructions. You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with no metal accessories.

Is a PET/CT scan safe?

A PET/CT scan is considered safe. The amount of radiation in the radioactive tracer and CT imaging are low and do not stay in the body for long. Drink plenty of fluids in the days following your PET scan to help your body flush the traces from your system

Please let our facility and your doctor know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as you should not get a PET/CT scan. In addition, notify our radiology technician if you have diabetes or a history of kidney disease as they may also affect the results of the scan.

I’m claustrophobic, can I get a PET/CT scan?

Yes, the PET/CT scan takes 20-30 minutes and most patients are comfortable with receiving a scan during that time. Your technician will work with you to insure you are comfortable during the scan. If you have anxiety about your imaging appointment, please contact your doctor to discuss options for reducing your anxiety prior to your appointment.

How is a PET/CT scan different than a CT scan?

A CT scan uses multiple X-Ray images, known as slices, to create a detailed picture of the structure of bones, organs, and tissues in the body. The addition of the PET scan provides vital information about the functional activity of your organs and tissues. 

Is a PET/CT scan used in cancer staging?

Yes. Your oncologist may order a PET/CT scan to evaluate the stage of cancer, as well as determine the location and tissue for a biopsy, evaluate how a cancer treatment is working, create a plan for radiation therapy treatment, or check for new cancer growth or evidence of disease after treatment has ended.

*Some or all of the health care providers performing services at Touchstone Imaging are independent contractors and are not Touchstone’s agents or employees. Independent contractors are responsible for their own actions, and Touchstone shall not be liable for the acts or omissions of any such independent contractors.