How does a PET scan work?

A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into the body. Areas with higher metabolic activity absorb more tracer and appear as bright spots on the scan, helping detect abnormalities.

What conditions can PET/CT scans detect?

PET/CT scans are commonly used to detect cancer, evaluate heart disease, assess brain disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, and identify infections or inflammation.

Why is PET combined with CT?

PET shows metabolic activity, while CT provides detailed anatomical images. Combining them allows physicians to pinpoint exactly where abnormal activity is occurring in the body.

Yes, PET scans use a small, controlled amount of radioactive tracer and are considered safe for most patients. The benefits of accurate diagnosis typically outweigh the minimal risks.

How long does a PET/CT scan take?

The full appointment may take a few hours, including preparation and tracer absorption time, while the actual imaging portion usually lasts 20 to 40 minutes.

Services

PET/CT Imaging

Q: What is a PET/CT scan?

A PET/CT scan is an imaging test that combines positron emission tomography and computed tomography to show both how the body functions and its internal structure in a single exam.

Last Updated: May 2026

What Is PET/CT?

Patients at Akumin have access to advanced Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT) technology in a single, seamless exam. PET/CT imaging combines two imaging methods into one session to create a three-dimensional image of the body to show both the metabolic activity of cells and the precise anatomical location of abnormalities, giving physicians a more complete picture to guide care. This powerful combination is especially valuable in oncology, cardiology, and neurology, where early and accurate detection can significantly influence treatment options and outcomes.

By performing PET and CT together, Akumin helps save patients time, avoids the need for multiple appointments, and delivers a more comprehensive and accurate diagnosis. The integrated images from PET/CT imaging support more confident decision-making, help monitor how well therapies are working, and can assist in planning surgeries or radiation treatments with greater precision. Read our comprehensive guide to PET/CT to learn more.

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How PET/CT Works

PET Scan: Uses a small amount of safe, radioactive tracer to highlight areas of increased metabolic activity. Abnormal cells absorb more of the tracer, appearing as bright spots on the scan. This is a key part of PET imaging for cancer and helps physicians see how disease is behaving at a metabolic level.
CT Scan: Produces detailed cross-sectional images of your body, revealing the size, shape, and location of suspicious areas.

When these images are combined, they create a highly detailed result that shows what is happening inside the body and exactly where it is happening, enabling more confident treatment decisions.

PET/CT for Cancer Care

PET/CT imaging is one of the most important tools in oncology, and Akumin uses it to:

Detect cancer at an earlier stage
Distinguish between benign and malignant growths
Accurately locate abnormalities within the body
Determine the stage of cancer
Monitor response to treatment
Check for recurrence after treatment

PET imaging for cancer allows care teams to tailor therapies to the individual, avoid unnecessary procedures, and respond quickly if a tumor changes over time. PET/CT can also help guide biopsies, support radiation therapy planning, and provide reassurance when scans show no evidence of active disease.

PET/CT for Prostate Cancer

Akumin offers PSMA PET/CT, a major advancement in PET/CT for prostate cancer that targets a protein called prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) found on prostate cancer cells. This technology can:

Detect prostate cancer that may not appear on conventional imaging
Determine whether the disease has spread outside the prostate
Guide treatment planning, including surgery, radiation therapy, or systemic therapy
Monitor treatment response and check for recurrence

PSMA PET/CT provides highly detailed, whole-body images to help physicians locate small, specific areas of disease that may be missed with other imaging modalities. This added precision can support earlier intervention and more tailored care, especially for men with rising PSA levels or inconclusive results from other tests. The exam is performed in a comfortable outpatient setting, and results are interpreted by subspecialized radiologists experienced in prostate imaging.

Other Conditions PET/CT Can Detect

Beyond oncology, PET/CT imaging is valuable for:

Cardiology: Assessing blood flow, heart muscle activity, muscle viability after a heart attack, coronary artery disease, and inflammatory heart conditions, including sarcoidosis and infections. Learn more about PET/CT in Cardiology.
Neurology: Evaluating brain disease such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, and other neurological conditions.

Benefits of PET/CT at Akumin

When patients choose Akumin for PET/CT imaging, they receive attentive, patient-centered care backed by advanced imaging technology and experienced clinical teams. Our streamlined scheduling and coordinated support staff help make the process smoother and less stressful, from preparation through follow-up. By combining high-quality imaging with a focus on comfort and clear communication, Akumin helps patients and their physicians move forward with confidence.

Comprehensive Results: Functional and anatomical information captured in a single exam
Single Session Convenience: PET and CT performed together during one appointment
Minimally Invasive Testing: Only a small tracer injection is required
Reduced Need for Additional Testing: Helps limit the number of follow-up scans or procedures
Better Treatment Decisions: Detailed insights that support more informed care planning

What to Expect During a PET/CT Exam

Preparation: Patients may be asked to fast for several hours. The Akumin care team provides clear instructions before the scan. Learn about preparation steps.
Tracer Injection: A small amount of radiotracer is injected, followed by a rest period while it circulates.
The Scan: Patients lie on a comfortable table that moves through the scanner. The scan itself usually takes 30 to 60 minutes.
After the Exam: Normal activities can be resumed, and patients are encouraged to drink water to help flush the tracer from the body.

Advanced Technology, Exceptional Care

Akumin uses the latest PET/CT technology to deliver high-resolution images and accurate results. This helps physicians detect disease earlier, plan treatment precisely, and monitor progress over time, all while prioritizing patient comfort and experience. Whether used as PET imaging for cancer or as part of specialized PET/CT for prostate cancer, our commitment to quality supports better outcomes for every patient we serve.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)›

What is a PET/CT scan?

A PET/CT scan combines two imaging tests — positron emission tomography (PET) and computed tomography (CT) — in one session to give doctors both metabolic and anatomical information.

How does a PET/CT scan work?

A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected, then a PET scan detects areas of high cellular activity while the CT scan shows detailed anatomy. The images are combined for a complete view.

What should I expect during a PET/CT scan?

You’ll lie on a table that moves through the scanner. The exam is painless and usually takes 30–60 minutes after a short prep period.

How do I prepare for a PET/CT scan?

You may be asked to fast for several hours and avoid strenuous activity before the scan. Your care team will give you exact instructions.

Is PET/CT safe?

Yes. The tracer contains a very small amount of radiation that leaves the body quickly. The exposure is similar to other imaging tests.

How soon will I get PET/CT results?

Most results are available within 24–48 hours. Your physician will review them with you and discuss next steps.

Can PET/CT detect prostate cancer?

Yes. PSMA PET/CT is one of the most accurate ways to detect and stage prostate cancer and guide treatment planning.

What is the difference between PET/CT and CT scan?

A CT scan shows anatomy only. PET/CT adds metabolic information, helping doctors see how tissue is functioning, not just what it looks like.

What are the benefits of PET/CT?

It provides more accurate information in a single session, helps avoid unnecessary biopsies, and supports better treatment planning.

Does Medicare cover PET/CT?

Yes, when medically necessary. Most insurance plans also cover PET/CT. Coverage will be confirmed before your appointment.

Contributors

Bhea Jaime, CNMT
Radiation Safety Specialist

Bhea is a healthcare leader with a strong technical background in Nuclear Medicine, PET/CT, radiopharmaceutical therapies and radiation safety in clinical and hospital settings. She brings experience in regulatory compliance, oversight of radiation safety and treatment programs across multi-site healthcare systems, with a focus on clinical team collaboration and operational excellence.

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