PET-CT scans are usually safe and non-invasive. In certain conditions, PET-CT scans may, however, cause the following side effects:
- Increased risk of abortion or mutation in pregnancy
- Allergic reaction to the radioactive tracer used
- Breastfeeding women need to stop breastfeeding one day before and after the scan
- Bruising in the area of needle insertion
- Pain and swelling in the arm due to the leakage of radioactive tracer outside the vein
- Slightly increased risk of cancer development due to radiation exposure
- The cannula will be removed from your arm.
- You can go home immediately after the procedure.
- You can eat and drink normally after the procedure.
- Drink lots of fluids after the scan to aid in flushing the radioactive tracer out of the system.
- If you have been given a sedative before the procedure, you will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. You will not be able to drive for the remaining part of the day as you may feel drowsy.
- For about six hours after the procedure, stay at an arm’s distance from pregnant women and young children as the radioactive tracer may give off small amounts of radiation for some time after the procedure.
- Take your doctor’s letter with you if you are planning to travel abroad within one week of your scan as some airports may have sensitive radiation monitors that could pick up any trace of radiation left in your body after the test.
- You will get the results of your scan within one or two weeks.
Benefits:
The advantages of PET-CT scan are:
- Early diagnosis
- Helps in precise treatment planning
- Quick procedure
- High levels of accuracy and detail
Cost of PET-CT scan in India-
The cost of a PET-CT scan in Mumbai is between INR 10,000 to INR 25,000.
The cost of a PET-CT scan in Delhi is between INR 8,000 to INR 22,000.
The cost of a PET-CT scan in Bangalore is between INR 8,000 to INR 22,000.
The cost of a PET-CT scan in Chennai is between INR 7,500 to INR 20,000.