Our services
PET/CT Scan
PET/CT scans can reveal changes in the body that other imaging methods, such as ultrasound or x-ray, may not detect.
The images and reports from a PET/CT scan can assist doctors to identify early-stage disease, distinguish between living and dead tissue, differentiate benign from malignant tumours, assess blood flow and the function of brain and heart tissue, and evaluate infection and inflammation.
Currently available at our new Noosa clinic only from November.
What is a PET/CT Scan?
PET is an abbreviation for positron emission tomography, which is an imaging examination that can show early changes in the activity of your cells.
Computed tomography (or a CT scan) is a medical imaging procedure that uses x-rays and digital technology to create cross-section images of the body. It can make an image of every type of body structure at once and shows the structure of the tissue or organ where the changes are taking place.
Combining these two nuclear medicine imaging tests with our state-of-the-art PET/CT scanner provides highly detailed information, enabling doctors to diagnose and treat various medical conditions by accurately detecting the presence, spread, and precise location of disease.
Patient Safety
A PET/CT scan is a safe and routine procedure that uses a small amount of radiation from a radioactive sugar and a CT scan. The radiation dose is very low, well within accepted medical limits, and the test provides valuable information to help with a diagnosis. The radioactive glucose has no known side effects, and we use the latest equipment to minimise exposure.
Your doctor only recommends this scan after carefully weighing the benefits against any potential risks, so you can feel confident in the safety of the procedure.
About Your Test
Before your appointment
You will need a referral from your doctor to make an appointment.
Upon receiving your referral, our Bookings Team will be able to help assist you in finding a time that works for you to have your test done.
At the time you make your appointment, our Bookings Team will advise you of anything you need to do to prepare for your test. This could include fasting or drinking water.
On the day
Upon arrival, you will be asked to change into a gown and one of our imaging specialists will complete a short questionnaire with you. A cannula will be inserted into a vein in your arm or hand. The imaging specialist will then inject the radioactive tracer.
Depending on the examination type, you will then be required to rest quietly for 45-60 minutes in your own room in a comfortable recliner chair. Staff will be present throughout this time to monitor any needs you may have. Imaging takes 30-45 minutes.
Upon completion of the scan, the imaging specialist will check the quality of the images whilst you change out of the gown. You will be provided with light refreshments during this time. Once the cannula has been removed, you may leave the clinic.
In total, we advise to allow 3 hours for an appointment.
After your appointment
Following a PET/CT procedure, it is advised that you maintain hydration throughout the remainder of the day and go to the toilet when required. This is to assist in flushing the remainder of the radioactive injection and iodinated contrast media out of your system.
One of our radiologists will interpret the scan and provide your referring doctor with a comprehensive report about the findings. The results of your scan will be sent directly to your referring doctor, and it is very important you book a timely follow-up appointment to discuss your results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Our reception staff will advise you at the time of booking of the exact requirements, including fasting, depending on your procedure.
Upon arrival, you will be asked to change into a gown and one of our Nuclear Medicine Technologists will complete a short questionnaire with you. A cannula will be inserted into a vein in your arm or hand. The technologist will then inject a radioactive tracer.
Depending on the examination type, you will then be required to rest quietly for 45-60 minutes in your own room in a comfortable recliner chair. Staff will be present throughout this time to monitor any needs you may have. Imaging takes 30-45 minutes.
Upon completion of the scan, a Nuclear Medicine Technologist will check the quality of the images whilst you change out of the gown. You will be provided with light refreshments during this time. Once the cannula has been removed, you may leave the clinic.
PET/CT imaging is only available at our Noosa clinic:
Noosa Civic Medihub, 28 Eenie Creek Rooad, Noosaville.
Open 8am – 5pm Mon-Fri
Prior to your scan and to ensure optimal imaging, you may be asked to change into a gown. A change cubicle will be provided to ensure your privacy and you will be asked to bring your belongings will you, carry baskets are provided. You will be asked to place your belongings in a suitable location within the room for the duration of your scan. After your scan, you will be provided with a change cubicle to ensure your privacy. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you prior to leaving the department. If you accidentally leave anything behind, please contact our staff to advise and we will endeavour to locate your belongings and return them to you.
Although imaging takes 30-45mins, we advise to allow 3 hours for an appointment.
Your images and report are provided through a secure online system to your doctor or healthcare provider. We will also provide you with a printed copy to take to your follow-up appointment with your doctor.
Our friendly reception staff will advise you on the cost of your procedure at the time of your booking. If your exam is Medicare eligible, you will be bulk billed.
