What to Expect During a Brain PET Scan Procedure?
During a Brain PET scan, the patient will first receive a small injection of a radioactive tracer, which is designed to be absorbed by the brain. The tracer emits positrons, which are detected by the PET scanner to create detailed images of the brain’s metabolic activity. The injection is typically painless, although some patients may experience slight discomfort at the injection site. After the tracer is injected, there is a waiting period of about 30 to 60 minutes to allow the substance to distribute throughout the brain. During this time, the patient may be asked to relax and remain still to ensure optimal imaging results.
Once the tracer has been absorbed, the patient will lie on a special examination table that moves into the PET scanner, which resembles a large tube or doughnut-shaped device. It is important for the patient to remain as still as possible during the scan to avoid blurry images. The procedure usually lasts between 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the specific requirements of the test. The patient may be asked to breathe normally, and sometimes, they may need to perform simple tasks or mental exercises, depending on the specific purpose of the scan. Afterward, the images are analyzed by a radiologist to assess brain function.
