How should I prepare for the scan?
As with any radiology exam, call us in advance if you are pregnant or nursing or severely claustrophobic.

	Drink extra fluids (especially water) the day before your scan and following your scan.
	Drink extra WATER the day of the scan before arriving for the scan.
	DO NOT eat, drink (except water – DO DRINK WATER), chew gum, or use breath mints (this includes sugar free items) for 4 hours before the test.
	A low carbohydrate, high protein diet is recommended for your last meal before beginning your 4 hour fast.
	Caffeine and strenuous physical activity should be avoided for 12 hours prior to the exam.
	Medications and water can be taken at any time, if they can be taken on an empty stomach. Diabetic medications may not be taken within 4 hours prior to the exam.
	Bring a list of current medications.
	Dress comfortably. The scan room must be kept cool, please dress accordingly
	Diabetic patients are asked to call the Center for specific instructions.
	Please bring any related CT or MRI films to your appointment.
	If you have special needs, please call the Center in advance.

What should I expect during the procedure?
When you arrive, the technologist will ask questions about your health history, explain the test, and check your blood sugar. You will receive an injection in your arm or hand. The injection will contain a tracer amount of radioactive material (FDG). The tracer is safe, and no adverse reactions have been documented. After the injection, you will sit in a private room for approximately 1 hour while the tracer circulates. In most cases, you may relax, watch TV, or read. After the waiting period, you will be asked to empty your bladder and proceed to the scan room. The scanner is similar to a CT scanner. You will lie on your back for 20-30 minutes and slowly move through the scanner as your body is imaged. Movement can ruin images, so it is important that you are as comfortable as possible. In most cases, you may wear normal clothing for the entire procedure, although metal objects must be removed. The scan itself takes about 20-30 minutes. You should plan on being here for approximately 1 ½ - 2 hours.

If you have special needs, e.g. language barrier, wheelchair requirements, or oxygen support, please call the Center in advance.

IT IS VERY IMPORTANT THAT YOU ARE ON TIME FOR YOUR TEST, ARRIVING AT LEAST 15 MINUTES BEFORE YOUR APPOINTMENT TIME. The radioactive tracer is made and ordered especially for your appointment, and because of its short half-life will be unusable if your appointment is delayed. We will attempt to notify you in advance of any schedule change.

After the exam, you may resume all normal activities. Remember to drink extra fluids.