When it comes to diagnosing and monitoring certain medical conditions, PET scans have become an invaluable tool. But if you or someone you know is undergoing a PET scan, one burning question may arise: how soon will the results be available? In this article, we will delve into the intricacies of PET scan procedures, processing times, and factors that may affect the waiting period.
Understanding PET ScansPET (Positron Emission Tomography) scans are medical imaging tests that help detect diseases at the cellular level. They utilize a small amount of a radioactive tracer, called a radiopharmaceutical, which is injected into the body. This tracer emits gamma rays, which are then detected by a PET scanner. The scanner creates detailed three-dimensional images of the body's metabolic processes, allowing healthcare professionals to identify abnormalities.
These scans are commonly used in oncology to detect and stage cancer, evaluate its response to treatment, an…