Before arriving for your PET scan there are a few things you should do to prepare:

• Eat a high protein diet and no carbohydrates for dinner the night before.
• Do not eat or drink anything besides water after midnight. If your appointment is at 12:30 pm or later, you may have a high protein and no carbohydrates breakfast but must be finished by 6:30 am.
• No gum or candy the morning/day of appointment.
• No smoking or caffeine 12 hours prior to your appointment.
• No vigorous exercise 24 hours prior to your appointment
• Normal medications can be taken with water only.

Wear comfortable clothes, with no buckles or metal. It is also best to leave any jewelry at home. Times can vary depending on the type of scan. It is best to plan to spend about two hours with us.

If diabetic and on oral treatment, do not take medication if blood sugar is below 250 four hours prior to appointment. If blood sugar is over 250, please take oral treatment but you will have to reschedule your scan. If on insulin treatment, check your blood sugar four hours prior and if below 250 do not take any insulin. If over 250 only take 1/2 of the dose and eat a small protein snack such as an egg or piece of cheese.

If you are claustrophobic, consult with your physician and you must contact PET/CT staff for the safest possible preparation method. P.E.T. Fusion Imaging does not dispense or stock any medications. If you take or anticipate needing any medication please bring it with you.

If there is a history of melinoma, you will need to inform our PET/CT staff.

If pregnant or nursing, you will need to inform our PET/CT staff.

It is best to consult with the PET/CT staff prior to your exam to go over any specific preparation needs. Failure to follow the guidelines could affect the results of the scan and provide your physician with inaccurate information.