Author: Southwest Diagnostic Imaging Center

Are PET Scans Safe? Understanding Radiation Exposure and Safety Measures

Positron Emission Tomography (PET scans) are powerful imaging tools used to detect diseases such as cancer, heart conditions, and neurological disorders. However, because PET scans use a small amount of radioactive material, many patients wonder about their safety. Understanding how PET scans work, the level of radiation exposure involved, and the safety measures in place can help ease concerns.

How PET Scans Work

A PET scan uses radiotracers, which are radioactive substances that help highlight abnormalities in the body. The process includes:

  • Injection of a Radiotracer – The patient receives an injection of a small amount of radioactive material, usually a sugar-based compound like fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG).
  • Absorption and Imaging – The radiotracer travels through the body and accumulates in areas of high metabolic activity, such as cancer cells. A specialized scanner detects the radiation and creates detailed images.
  • Natural Elimination – The body gradually eliminates the radioactive material, primarily through urine within a few hours.

Radiation Exposure: How Safe Is a PET Scan?

Many people worry about radiation exposure from PET scans, but the levels are generally low. Here’s how they compare to other common sources of radiation:

  • PET Scan: Exposure is roughly equivalent to a few years of natural background radiation.
  • CT Scan: PET scans often have similar or slightly higher exposure than a single CT scan.
  • Everyday Exposure: People are exposed to background radiation daily from the sun, air travel, and even household items.

The radioactive material used in PET scans has a short half-life, meaning it breaks down quickly and doesn’t remain in the body for long.

Safety Measures for Patients and Providers

Healthcare professionals follow strict protocols to minimize radiation exposure and ensure patient safety. Some key safety measures include:

  • Using the Lowest Effective Dose – Doctors only administer the necessary amount of radiotracer for accurate imaging.
  • Minimizing Scan Time – PET scans are designed to be as quick as possible while still gathering essential data.
  • Encouraging Hydration – Drinking plenty of fluids after the scan helps flush the radiotracer out of the system.
  • Limiting Close Contact – It may be recommended to limit extended close contact with pregnant women or young children for a few hours after the scan.

Who Should Take Extra Precautions?

While PET scans are safe for most people, certain groups may need additional considerations:

  • Pregnant Women – Radiation exposure is minimized during pregnancy, so PET scans are typically avoided unless absolutely necessary.
  • Breastfeeding Mothers – Some radiotracers may require temporary pausing of breastfeeding. Doctors provide guidance based on the specific radiotracer used.
  • Allergies to Radiotracers – Although rare, allergic reactions to PET scan materials can occur. Patients should inform their doctor of any previous reactions.
  • Kidney or Liver Conditions – Since the radiotracer is processed by the body, those with kidney or liver issues may require special monitoring.

PET Imaging in Dallas

PET scans are generally safe, with radiation exposure levels comparable to other medical imaging procedures and everyday background radiation. Medical professionals take every precaution to ensure patient safety while using these scans to detect and monitor serious health conditions.

If you have concerns about radiation exposure or whether a PET scan is right for you, speak with Southwest Diagnostic Imaging Center to weigh the risks and benefits based on your individual health needs.

Sources:

https://www.medicoverhospitals.in/articles/pet-scan-side-effects

https://www.iaea.org/resources/rpop/health-professionals/nuclear-medicine/pet-ct/patients

https://www.rnmcenter.com/blog/are-there-any-risks-of-having-a-pet-scan/

Demystifying the Safety Measures of MRI Procedures

Today’s physicians have so many advanced tools to diagnose illness, cancer, or other abnormalities in our bodies. MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is one of the most utilized and valuable of these tools. Nevertheless, some individuals are still frightened that they are dangerous and unsafe. It’s time to finally begin demystifying the safety measures of MRI procedures.

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Choosing the Right Place to Get Your Yearly Mammogram

Let’s be honest, whenever you are scheduled for a mammogram, you feel a bit anxious. Will they find something? Am I going to be called back for another look? Even if you’ve had no symptoms or changes to your breast, you still dread the screening test. Choosing the right place to get your yearly mammogram can actually change those feelings. Find out why.

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High Breast Cancer Risk: When to Begin Screening

Some people will debate whether too much of a good thing is a good thing. We say yes, it’s especially a good thing when talking about screening for high risk breast cancer. It is recommended that women with a high breast cancer risk screen for breast cancer earlier and more often than women with a normal breast cancer risk. For those women with a high breast cancer risk, when should you begin screening?

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Demystifying the Safety Measures of MRI Procedures

Today’s physicians have so many advanced tools to diagnose illness, cancer, or other abnormalities in our bodies. MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is one of the most utilized and valuable of these tools. Nevertheless, some individuals are still frightened that they are dangerous and unsafe. It’s time to finally begin demystifying the safety measures of MRI procedures.

Continue reading “Demystifying the Safety Measures of MRI Procedures”

Diagnostic Radiology and Cancer: What You Should Know

Whether you are having a mammogram or an MRI to detect cancer, there is someone behind the screen looking at the images and making a professional diagnosis. It’s not the Wizard of Oz, but a doctor and well-trained diagnostic radiologist who interprets the images, makes a diagnosis, and issues a report. Here’s what you should know about diagnostic radiology and cancer:.

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Prioritizing Breast Health: Your Guide to Breast Exams

Breast exams are performed to check for any unusual changes to your breast tissue. These checks are an important way to be proactive with your breast health—early detection is the best protection. Do you know how to do a monthly breast self exam? Prioritizing breast health: your guide to breast exams.

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