Bike For Breast Cancer 2010
heart score, lung screening

PET-CT is a nuclear medicine imaging study that produces pictures of the body's biological activity. Traditional imaging like MRI & CT detects the physical size or structure of internal organs. The advantage of PET-CT is that it detects changes in cellular function. Functional changes, such as how the cells utilize sugar (glucose), often take place before physical changes occur in certain disease states or conditions.

PET Technology has been available as a research tool for over 30 years. The procedure is now being widely used in clinical settings, adding an important new dimension to a physician's ability to diagnose and manage many cancers, Alzheimer's disease, and other dementias. Some facilities have chosen to invest in mobile PET-CT trailers, which is uncomfortable and generally only available one day per week. MCAI has invested in a state-of-the- art fixed location PET-CT scanner which is available 6 days a week (including evenings) in an environment that emphasizes comfort and relaxation.

Benefit of PET-CT
PET-CT can positively alter the patient's clinical course by allowing for earlier diagnosis, monitoring response to therapy, identifying occult distant metastasis, and providing more accurate information before surgery is performed. Invasive procedures may sometimes be avoided based on PET-CT findings. The information provided by PET-CT often allows for a more timely and accurate diagnosis, potentially lowering the overall cost of medical care.

Patient Prep
Patients are required to fast for 4-6 hours prior to the study (no caloric intake, no gum, candy, sweetened drinks, etc.). Notify the technologist in advance if you are diabetic so that special arrangements can be made. Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours prior. Dress comfortably, avoiding metal buckles and zippers where possible.

THE PATIENT'S MOST RECENT MRI AND/OR CT FILMS SHOULD BE GIVEN TO THE TECHNOLOGIST BEFORE STARTING THE EXAM.

* For non-covered indications, MCAI offers discounted rates of $1300, normally $4850. BCBS of Illinois requires a 2 week predetermination period on many indications. Many patients chose not to wait this period, rather, elect the self pay discounted rate and not file through their insurance company.

The Procedure
The examination takes approximately 2-3 hours. The patient reclines in a leather chair in a private, comfortable room, positioned to maintain maximal muscle relaxation. A small dose of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into the arm. The patient then rests and watches
TV for approximately 1-2 hours depending on the indication. The radiation exposure associated with PET is very low, similar to that received with a CT scan. Following the initial distribution phase, the patient is positioned on their back in the PET-CT scanner, very much like a CT scan. The acquisition/scanning time is variable based on the clinical problem and patient height, but usually averages 30-45 minutes.

Private Insurance Carriers
Commercial insurance providers frequently cover additional indications to that of Medicare. MCAI will verify insurance eligibility and pre-certify the patient immediately after the study is scheduled. Information needed at the time of scheduling is the diagnosis, member insurance information ( name of plan, identification number and member services phone number).

Return to top

print page