Brain PET-CT Scan 

What is a Brain PET-CT Scan?

A Brain PET-CT scan is a test that shows how your brain is working. It helps doctors find problems like memory loss, seizures, brain tumours, or other brain disorders. The scan uses a small amount of safe radioactive material to highlight brain activity.

Why You Might Need It

This scan helps in:

• Diagnosing dementia, epilepsy, or Parkinson’s.
• Finding tumours or signs of stroke.
• Planning treatment for brain-related conditions.
• Understanding unexplained memory or behaviour changes.

Before the Scan – How to Prepare

Fasting

• Don’t eat anything for at least 6 hours before your scan.
• You can drink plain water.

Avoid These for 24 Hours Before the Scan

• Coffee, tea, alcohol
• Smoking
• Strenuous exercise
• Stressful or heavy mental activity

Medicines

• Tell us about all the medicines you take.
• If you have diabetes, some changes might be needed.
• Do not stop or change medicines on your own—ask us first.

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding

• Let us know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Breastfeeding mothers may need to store milk in advance.

What to Bring on Scan Day

• Doctor’s prescription or referral letter
• Any past scan reports (PET, CT, MRI)
• A list of your current medications
• Your recent blood sugar report
• Comfortable clothes (no metal buttons or zips)
• An attendant, if needed (only one person)

How Long Will It Take?

The entire visit usually takes about 2 to 3 hours. Here’s how:

• Arrival & Paperwork: 15–30 minutes
• Injection of the tracer: 10–15 minutes
• Resting time (quiet room): 45–60 minutes
• Actual scan: 15–30 minutes

You will need to lie still during the scan. It doesn’t hurt.

After the Scan – What to Expect

• Drink lots of water to flush out the tracer.
• Avoid close contact with children or pregnant women for a few hours.
• You can eat, drive, and take your regular medicines, unless you were sedated.
• Your report will be sent to your doctor.

Important Notes

• Claustrophobic? Let us know. We’ll make you comfortable.
• You’ll need to remove jewellery and metal items before the scan.
• The scan is safe and painless, but being still is important for clear images.
• Diabetic patients should inform our team in advance for special instructions.