PET/CT Scan

A PET scan (positron emission tomography), with the use of a radiopharmaceutical, monitors the function of targeted cells. The combination of PET and CT images pinpoint the location of increased radiopharmaceutical activity within the body to evaluate cancer or other diseases.

Community Health Network offers the following types of PET scans:

  • FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose) - For assessment of abnormal glucose metabolism to assist in the evaluation of malignancy in patients with known or suspected abnormalities found by other testing modalities, or in patients with an existing diagnosis of cancer
  • FES (fluoroestradiol) - For the detection of estrogen receptor (ER)-positive lesions as an adjunct to biopsy in patients with recurrent or metastatic breast cancer
  • Dotatate - For the localization of somatostatin receptor positive neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) in adult patients
    • NETSPOT™ scan
  • PSMA - For assessment of prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) positive lesions in men with prostate cancer with suspected metastasis who are candidates for initial definitive therapy or with suspected recurrence based on elevated serum prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level
  • Amyloid imaging of the brain to estimate beta-amyloid neuritic plaque density in adult patients with cognitive impairment who are being evaluated for Alzheimer’s disease and other causes of cognitive decline.

How To Schedule

To schedule a PET/CT exam, please call centralized scheduling at 317-355-4680. Pre-authorization is required before scheduling.

For Patients

MyChart Login Pre-Register Online

How To Prepare

Note: If you are scheduled for a FDG PET/CT scan, please follow these preparation instructions.

Your PET/CT exam is scheduled as two appointments. We ask that you arrive at least 15 minutes early for registration and check in prior to the first appointment. This is important because your exam requires a time-sensitive injection that has been specifically ordered for you. If you are late, your appointment may have to be rescheduled.

If you must cancel or reschedule, please call 317-355-4680 prior to your appointment. The PET department must cancel the dose order if you are unable to make the appointment.

If you suffer from imaging related anxiety or claustrophobia, discuss this with your healthcare provider prior to your PET/CT appointment. If prescribed, bring the medication with you to your exam. We are not able to provide the medication for you. A driver must accompany you if oral sedatives are taken.

Day of Your PET/CT

  • Family members and/or friends may accompany you to your appointment; however, they will be asked to wait in the lobby.
  • A radiopharmaceutical will be administered through an IV. Following this injection, you will rest in a private room for approximately 60 minutes, depending on the exam ordered.
  • After your rest period, you will need to lie flat and still on the PET/CT scan table for 20-30 minutes, depending on the exam ordered.
  • Your appointment will last approximately 1½ hours.

After the Scan

  • Unless you have received special instructions, you will be able to eat and drink immediately.
  • Fluid intake will promote excretion of the radiopharmaceutical.
  • You can otherwise return to your normal activities immediately after your PET/CT scan.
  • Inform the technologist if you will be flying the same day.
  • Results will be made available to the ordering provider or via MyChart 24-48 hours post scan.

PET/CT Scan Locations

Community MD Anderson Cancer Center - North
7979 N Shadeland Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46250

Community MD Anderson Cancer Center - East Medical Oncology
1400 N Ritter Ave, Indianapolis, IN 46219

Community MD Anderson Cancer Center - South
1440 East County Line Road, Indianapolis, IN 46227

Community Howard Imaging Center
3500 S. Lafountain, Kokomo, IN 46902

Community MD Anderson Cancer Center - Anderson Medical Oncology
1629 Medical Arts Blvd, Anderson, IN 46011
Mobile PET via Shared Medical Services