PET/CT scanning involves the injection of a small amount of Radioactive isotope to successfully produce images of the patient.

In addition to this, the CT part of the scan (Computed Tomography) – using ionising radiation – is used to supplement the high quality PET images. This imaging technique, first established in 1973, is extensively used, with many thousands of examinations being performed on patients around the world each day.

The radioactive component of the PET/CT scan is called Fluorine – 18.
Fluorine is attached to glucose in the injection given to the patient. Radioactivity is often described in terms of its half-life. Half-life is defined as the time taken for radioactivity to fall to half its initial level. Fluorine has a half life of 110 minutes. This means that the level of radioactivity remaining in your system halves every 110minutes.

It is safe to say that 48 hours after the scan there would be an insignificant amount of radioactivity left in the patient.

Patients who are pregnant or who might be pregnant must inform our staff well before your appointment. Patients who are pregnant will not receive a PET/CT scan. Further consultation with your Doctor will be arranged.

When arranging transport to and from the PET/CT centre please note that we do not advise that pregnant carers or visitors travel with patients. We advise that close contact with pregnant people is avoided for at least 48 hours after a PET/CT scan.

Please note that the Guildford PET/CT Centre complies with the licences from all governing authorities including: The Environment Agency, Health and Safety Executive and the Department of Health in maintaining the highest quality of safety for patients.