PET Scan

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Wooster Community Hospital offers the most advanced technology in positron emission tomography (PET). PET is combined with computerized tomography (CT) to create a sophisticated, noninvasive diagnostic study of the biochemistry and physiologic function of the human body. PET scans are completely painless, allowing patients to receive an accurate diagnosis for their condition conveniently and comfortably.

PET is a remarkable imaging tool that provides physicians with important and specific information about the function of organs and cells within your body. A CT scan creates images with exquisite anatomical detail. When a PET scan is used in conjunction with a CT scan, the resulting fused images provide extremely useful information for the diagnosis of disease and management of patients.

PET Scan Hours:

Tuesday: 2:00 pm – 5:00 pm

How a PET Scan Works

A PET scan is a type of nuclear medicine imaging test. PET scans use small amounts of radioactive materials called tracers to detect very early changes in your cells. Depending on the body part being examined, the tracer may be administered through an IV, swallowed, or inhaled as a gas. It is then absorbed by the organs and tissues, so they can be clearly examined throughout the procedure.

The tracer accumulates in areas of higher chemical or metabolic activity, which indicates disease. These areas show up as bright spots on the PET scan. By detecting changes in the body at the cellular level, PET scans can pinpoint the onset of disease much sooner than a CT or MRI scan alone.

Why Use a PET Scan

PET scans are a popular tool used to diagnose a wide range of cancers, heart diseases, and brain-related disorders. Most often, solid tumors are indicated through the use of a PET and CT scan. Tumors diagnosed with the help of a PET/CT scan may include:

• Brain
• Breast
• Cervical
• Colorectal
• Esophageal
• Lung
• Lymphatic system
• Pancreatic
• Prostate
• Thyroid

PET isn’t just used to diagnose underlying conditions in men and women. Other common uses of PET/CT scans include:

• Early diagnosis of cancer, heart conditions, brain and central nervous system disorders such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, epilepsy, depression, brain tumors, and traumatic brain injury (TBI).
• Evaluating disease progression.
• Determining treatment response.

Preparing for Your PET Scan

Prior to your PET scan appointment, one of our dedicated team members will likely reach out to you to provide you with more information about the location of our PET scan as well as detailed instructions to prepare for your PET scan appointment. If one of our team members does not reach out to you within one week of your appointment, we encourage you to reach out to us to get any of your questions answered.

Prior to your appointment, it’s important to discuss with your provider if you are taking any prescription medications or natural supplements, if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, or if you are currently breastfeeding. You may also want to let your provider know if you have difficulty remaining in tight spaces for long periods of time. Your provider will be happy to work with you and accommodate your situation.

PET Scan in Wooster, OH

If you or a loved one is in need of a PET scan, look no further than Wooster Community Hospital. PET imaging services are available at the main campus of Wooster Community Hospital. To schedule an outpatient PET test, please call central scheduling at (330) 263-8660. Our team is available to assist you Monday through Friday between 8 am and 5:30 pm.