Confused between a PET CT scan and a CT scan? Learn the key differences, benefits, and which diagnostic imaging test is right for your medical condition.
Introduction
If your physician orders an imaging test, usually the first thing that comes to mind is what kind of scan will work best for you. Two common imaging technologies available are PET CT Scans and CT Scans. Both imaging methods play an important part of current medical practice, but they do have main differences in terms of their purpose and types of insights they provide.
The purpose of this article is to educate you about the PET CT Scan and CT Scan so that you can become more informed about the imaging process and feel less anxious about the examination itself, regardless of whether you are having a PET CT Scan or a CT Scan for evaluation of cancer, heart disease, neurological disease, or any other type of condition.
What is a CT scan?
Computed Tomography (CT) scans use X-rays in conjunction with computer technology to generate extremely detailed images of the internal organs and tissue structures of the human body. These images allow healthcare providers to visualize bones, organs, blood vessels and soft tissue in great detail.
Unlike other types of images produced by conventional X-rays (i.e. single image), CTs provide multiple two-dimensional images (slices) taken at various angles that when combined can provide a three-dimensional image of the area being examined. This provides physicians with excellent methods to evaluate injuries, infections, tumors, internal bleeding, fractures, etc. CT scans are also widely used because they provide quick diagnosis, are precise and have a wide variety of potential applications.
What is a PET CT Scan?
The PET CT scan is an advantageous imaging procedure that uses 2 effective imaging technologies and uses them to create both a Computed Tomography (CT) image and a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) image at the same time. The CT image enhances the doctor's ability to visualize anatomical structures within the body. The PET image detects and provides functional and metabolic information about various organ systems as well as various body tissues. Prior to the PET CT Scan being performed, a very small amount of a safe radioactive tracer is injected into a person's bloodstream. The active cells in your body (especially cancer cells), will absorb more of the radioactive tracer than surrounding normal cells. The PET Scan will therefore identify areas of your body composed of more active cells(increased metabolic activity).
Combining both structural and functional (anatomical and physiological) images provides doctors with a better understanding of what is going on inside your body than with either test alone.
What is the main difference between PET CT Scan and CT scan?
The primary distinction between CT scans and PET CT scans is their differing use of information.
CT scan: provides an image of a body's structure (size, shape, appearance) by providing an objective method to find differences in the body's anatomy.
PET CT Scan: provides an image of a body’s structure and functioning (how the body works) by providing additional functional information to use for cancer diagnosis/treatment options. This extra functional information is essential to any effective cancer diagnosis and treatment plan.
What is the price of PET and CT scan in Delhi NCR?
The price of PET and CT scan in Delhi NCR depends on various factors like location, discounts available and use of machines. Patients should visit Ganesh Diagnostic center for affordable test pricing for PET and CT scans with discounts 50%.
