Irving, TX, May 17, 2017 — When doctors order PET scans, some patients may find themselves a little intimidated by the prospect. While most people have had an X-ray at some point in life, not all are familiar with this powerful imaging technique and the benefits it can provide in diagnosing and treating certain images.

“The first thing patients need to know is that there is nothing to fear from this test,” says Dr. Gregory Echt, founder of PET/CT of Las Colinas. “While it may involve some preparation instructions beforehand, it is painless and provides accurate information that is critical for diagnosing and treating many conditions.”

Positron emission tomography (PET) provides physicians a way to look inside the body without actually having to go into the body to do so. PET scans enable doctors to visualize organs and tissues so that they may gauge how they are functioning. PET scans work by combining imaging technology with the use of low-dose radioactive tracers that are injected or ingested into the body. Once inside the body, these tracers collect in areas with high levels of chemical activity, which are associated with disease and other conditions. Collection points for the tracers show up on PET scans as bright spots, enabling doctors to diagnose and/or treat such conditions as cancer, heart disease and brain disorders.

Patients who are advised to undergo a PET scan will likely find a little preparation is required. They may, for example, be asked to refrain from eating or drinking for a set period of time before a test. Once they arrive at an imaging center, technicians will administer the necessary tracer. This generally takes only a short time, but patients may have to wait for about an hour to before a scan begins to ensure proper circulation of the tracer. The test itself only requires patients to lie down on a table that will be slowly passed through a scanner. The test typically takes about 30 minutes to perform.

“Although more involved than that standard X-ray so many are familiar with, PET scans provide tremendous value during the diagnostic and treatment process,” says Dr. Echt. “This procedure enables doctors to quickly and accurately gauge what is happening within the body so that patients may receive the best possible care.”

For more information about PET/CT of Las Colinas, visit the imaging center online.

About PET/CT of Las Colinas
PET/CT of Las Colinas is dedicated to the care and wellbeing of our patients. We understand that the foundation of a successful treatment plan – or a clean bill of health – begins with sophisticated, accurate imagery. We look forward to providing you with the highest level of care.Our imaging center is located conveniently across the highway from the Las Colinas Medical Center within the Las Colinas Cancer Center on Highway 161 in Irving, TX. and – once here – we offer hassle-free curbside parking.