PET Scans in Las Cruces
At Master Imaging LLC in Las Cruces, we understand that medical tests can be stressful. That’s why we focus on making your imaging experience as comfortable, quick, and informative as possible. One of the advanced imaging services we offer is the PET scan. This powerful tool helps doctors detect and monitor a wide range of medical conditions with incredible accuracy.
If your doctor has recommended a PET scan, Master Imaging is here to help.
What Is a PET Scan?
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A PET scan (short for Positron Emission Tomography) is a type of imaging test that uses a small amount of a special radioactive material to create detailed pictures of your body’s tissues and organs. This material is usually injected into your bloodstream before the scan.
Unlike regular X-rays or CT scans, a PET scan shows how your body’s cells are working, not just how they look. This makes it a valuable tool for detecting disease early, even before symptoms appear.
Why Are PET Scans Done?
Doctors use PET scans to:
- Detect cancer and see if it has spread to other parts of the body
- Monitor cancer treatment to see if it’s working
- Check brain function for conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, or brain tumors
- Evaluate heart problems such as reduced blood flow or damaged heart tissue
- Identify infections or inflammation in the body
Your doctor will decide if a PET scan is the best test based on your symptoms and medical history.
How to Prepare for a PET Scan
To get the best results, you’ll need to follow certain instructions before your scan. Your doctor or our team will give you exact details, but common guidelines include:
- Fasting: You may need to avoid eating for 4–6 hours before the scan. Water is usually allowed. This includes coffee, gum, breath mints, cough drops, hard candy, etc. If your medication requires you to take it with food, please refer to dietary guidelines.
- Hydrate: You are encouraged to drink plain/unflavored water before your appointment. No coffee, tea, soda, alcohol, etc.
- Avoiding strenuous activity: Heavy exercise can affect the results. If you are employed, there is no need to take the day off prior to your appointment unless the work is extremely active (i.e., construction, manufacturing, etc.). Traditional workplace or household activities are acceptable.
- Discussing medications: Let your doctor know about all medicines, vitamins, and supplements you take.
- Special instructions for diabetics: Blood sugar levels can impact the test, so diabetic patients may get specific directions.
Our friendly staff at Master Imaging LLC will walk you through the preparation process to ensure everything goes smoothly.
What to Expect During the Procedure
A PET scan is safe, painless, and usually takes about 1–2 hours from start to finish.
- Injection of the tracer: A small amount of radioactive tracer is injected into your arm. You’ll then rest quietly for 30–60 minutes while your body absorbs the tracer.
- The scan: You’ll lie on a table that slides into the PET scanner. The scanner is shaped like a large ring and does not enclose your whole body like some MRI machines.
- Stillness is key: You’ll need to remain still during the scan to get clear images.
- After the scan: You can usually return to normal activities right away. Drinking plenty of water helps flush the tracer from your body.
Are PET Scans Safe?
Yes. PET scans are considered safe for most patients. The amount of radiation used is very small and leaves your body quickly. However, PET scans are not recommended for pregnant women unless absolutely necessary.
Please inform our team before the scan if you have allergies, kidney problems, or other medical conditions.
The Benefits of PET Scans
PET scans offer several advantages:
- Early detection: Catch problems before symptoms appear
- Detailed images: Show how organs and tissues are working
- Treatment monitoring: See if a treatment is helping without waiting for symptoms to change
- Comprehensive information: Often combined with CT scans for even more detail
At Master Imaging LLC, we use the latest PET scan technology for clear, accurate results that help your doctor create the best treatment plan for you.
Schedule Your PET Scan with Master Imaging Today
A PET scan is a powerful tool for diagnosing and monitoring medical conditions. At Master Imaging LLC in Las Cruces, we’re committed to giving you a safe, comfortable, and accurate imaging experience.
If you need a PET scan, our caring team is here to guide you every step of the way. Call us today at (575) 249-7900 to schedule your appointment or to ask any questions.
Medical Records Fax: 575-249-7910. Authorization Fax: 575-449-4452.
Frequently Asked Questions About PET Scans
No. The scan itself is painless. You may feel a quick pinch from the injection, but the rest of the process is comfortable.
Plan for about 1.5 to 2 hours from check-in to completion. The actual scan takes about 30 minutes, but most of the time is spent waiting for the tracer to circulate in your body.
Yes. You can return to your normal diet unless your doctor gives you different instructions.
It’s best to drink plenty of water to help flush the tracer from your system. You can go about your normal activities unless your doctor advises otherwise.
Results are usually available within a day or two. Your doctor will review them and discuss the next steps with you.
Yes, you can bring a family member or friend for support. However, children and pregnant women should avoid close contact until the tracer leaves their system (usually within a few hours).
