A PET-CT scan with dotatate is a sophisticated imaging procedure that utilizes a radiotracer in conjunction with a PET-CT machine. This advanced technique is crucial for identifying neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) within the body. Your physician may schedule a PET-CT with dotatate for several key reasons:
- To detect the presence of cancer cells.
- To formulate an effective cancer treatment strategy.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing cancer treatment.
Understanding Oral Contrast
In some instances, you might be instructed to consume oral contrast prior to your PET-CT with dotatate scan. Oral contrast is a specialized dye designed to enhance the clarity of images, particularly of your colon. Upon arrival for your appointment, you will be asked about any allergies to iodinated contrast (contrast containing iodine). If you have an iodine allergy, a barium-based contrast may be administered instead. Both types of oral contrast serve the same purpose and are considered safe for individuals with diabetes.
Preparing for Your PET-CT Dotatate Scan
Proper preparation is essential for a successful PET-CT with dotatate scan. Please adhere to the following guidelines to ensure the best possible outcome.
Before Your Scan
To prepare for your PET-CT with dotatate, it’s important to follow these instructions in the hours leading up to your appointment:
- Hydration is Key: Drink between 32 and 64 ounces of water in the two hours preceding your scheduled appointment. Adequate hydration helps with image quality and tracer circulation.
- Octreotide Therapy Consultation: If you are currently undergoing octreotide therapy, it is imperative to consult with your physician regarding any necessary adjustments to your medication schedule before the scan.
- Continuous Glucose Monitor (CGM) Considerations: If you use a continuous glucose monitor (CGM), please be aware that it will need to be removed before the scan. Plan accordingly for glucose monitoring during your appointment.
- Managing Anxiety: If you experience anxiety or claustrophobia, discuss the possibility of taking an anti-anxiety medication with your referring physician prior to your appointment day. Please note that the imaging center cannot prescribe or administer such medication for this exam.
On the Day of Your Scan
Your PET-CT with dotatate scan integrates both PET and CT scanning technologies performed concurrently. The CT scan is a rapid sequence of X-ray images that provide detailed anatomical information. These CT images are then merged with the PET scan data to create comprehensive images of your soft tissues and bones.
- Check-In Procedure: Upon arrival, please check in for your appointment via the Connect patient portal. Alternatively, you can check in at the imaging center reception desk.
- Attire Recommendations: Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing to your appointment. It is advisable to leave jewelry and valuables at home. Avoid wearing clothing that contains metal components such as hooks, buckles, or wires, as metal can interfere with the imaging process.
- Procedure Overview: Upon your arrival, a healthcare provider will thoroughly explain the PET-CT with dotatate procedure and address any questions or concerns you may have.
- Radiotracer Administration: You will receive the dotatate radiotracer through an intravenous (IV) line inserted into your arm. This tracer is essential for the PET scan to highlight NETs.
- Waiting Period: After the radiotracer injection, you will be asked to wait in a designated room for approximately 40 minutes. During this uptake period, you are welcome to relax, listen to music, or watch videos on personal devices.
- The Scanning Process: You will then be guided to lie down on a narrow, padded table that will gently slide into the PET-CT scanner. The technologist will operate the scanner from an adjacent room but will maintain constant visual and auditory contact with you throughout the scan to ensure your comfort and safety.
- Staying Still: It is crucial to remain as still as possible during the scan, as any movement can compromise the image quality and potentially affect the accuracy of the results.
- Scan Duration: The actual PET-CT scanning process will take approximately 30 minutes. The entire appointment, including preparation and scan time, is expected to last around two hours.
After Your PET-CT Dotatate Scan
Following your PET-CT with dotatate scan, you can generally resume your normal daily activities immediately. To aid in flushing the minimal residual radiotracer from your system, it is recommended to drink plenty of fluids, particularly water, in the hours following your scan.
Understanding Potential Risks
It is important to remember that a PET-CT with dotatate scan is a diagnostic procedure, not a therapeutic treatment. Radiotracers have been safely used in medical diagnostics for over half a century, and there are no known long-term adverse effects associated with these procedures. In rare instances, patients may experience an allergic reaction to the radiotracer. These reactions are typically mild and manageable.
Receiving Your Results
A board-certified physician specializing in nuclear medicine will meticulously review your PET-CT with dotatate scan images, comparing them with any previous imaging studies. They will then compile a comprehensive report detailing their findings. This report will be promptly shared with the doctor who ordered your exam. Your referring physician will then discuss the results with you, explaining the findings and outlining any necessary next steps or treatment plans.
Accessing Your Images Online
For your convenience, you can access, download, or share your PET-CT with dotatate scan images electronically through your secure Connect patient portal.
Once logged into your patient portal, simply select the “View Radiology Images” option from the menu. This will open a new browser window displaying a comprehensive list of your imaging exams, allowing you to easily access and manage your records.
Questions About Your Exam?
If you have any questions or concerns before your PET-CT with dotatate scan, please do not hesitate to contact us directly at 212-342-2899. Our dedicated team is here to provide support and ensure you have a clear understanding of the procedure.
