Can MRI and PET Scans Be Done Together?

Do you often wonder what an MRI and a PET scan are?

Not anymore!

Let’s Explore About both Consequences

An imaging test called a positron emission tomography (PET) scan creates images of your organs and tissues. A PET scanner and a safe, injectable radioactive substance known as a radiotracer are used in this test. When unhealthy cells absorb a considerable amount of radiotracer, the scanner can recognise them and identify a possible health issue. Healthcare providers widely use PET scans to analyse cancer therapy options and aid in cancer diagnosis. With the scan, they may assess specific heart and brain problems as well.

On the other hand, an MRI scan, also known as magnetic resonance imaging, is a painless procedure that creates clear images of the inside organs and structures in your body.

MRI creates these finely detailed images using radio waves, a computer, and a big magnet. It doesn’t employ radiation or X-rays. Patients who need routine diagnosis or treatment monitoring, particularly for the brain, use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as it doesn’t require X-rays or other radiation.

One common question is – Can MRI and PET scans be done together?

Why Do You Need An MRI?

An MRI is a tool that healthcare professionals use to monitor or assist in diagnosing a wide range of illnesses. Moreover, there are many kinds of MRIs.  It depends on the part of your body that your doctor wishes to scan.

MRIs of the brain and spinal cord can be used to assess and identify the following conditions:

• Aneurysms in the brain.
• Tumours of the brain and spinal cord.
• Traumatic damage to the spine and brain.
• Spinal cord and nerves compressed or inflamed (pinched nerve).
• Sclerosis multiplex (MS).
• Disorders of the spinal cord.
• Anatomy and alignment of the spine.
• A stroke.

Doctors use heart MRIs:

• To assess the size and blood flow through the main arteries, the size and functionality of your heart’s chambers and valves, and the surrounding structures.
• To identify diseases of the cardiovascular system, including tumours, infections, and inflammatory disorders.
• To evaluate the effects of coronary artery disease, such as reduced heart muscle blood flow and scarring in the heart muscle after a heart attack.
• To assess the blood artery and the heart in grown-ups and children with genetic heart disease.

Body MRIs are useful for diagnosing several disorders and evaluating masses, such as:

• Tumours in your pelvis, belly, or chest.
• Illnesses of the liver, such as cirrhosis, as well as problems with the pancreas and bile ducts.
• Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease are instances of inflammatory bowel diseases.
• Blood vessel malformations as well as vascular inflammation (vasculitis).
• A growing embryo inside your womb.

MRIs of the joints and bones can be used to assess:

• Osteomyelitis: infections of the bones.
• Tumours of the bones.
• Abnormalities of the disc in your spine.
• Joint problems brought on by trauma.
• When a patient has dense breast tissue or may be at a higher risk of developing breast cancer, medical professionals may combine breast MRIs with mammography to detect the disease.

Why Do You Need A PET Scan?

Because cancer cells have a greater metabolic rate than normal cells, they appear as bright spots on PET scans. PET scans could be helpful for:

• Identifying cancer.
• Indicating if the malignancy has spread.
• Determining the efficacy of a cancer treatment.
• Discovering a relapse of cancer.

Regions of the heart with reduced blood flow can be seen with PET scans. This information can assist you and your healthcare professional to determine, for example, if you would benefit from an angioplasty (a technique to open clogged heart arteries) or coronary artery bypass surgery.

PET scans are also useful for evaluating many brain conditions, including tumours, Alzheimer’s, and seizures.

Can MRI And PET Scans Be Done Together?

A PET/MRI scan is a dual examination that combines pictures obtained from an MRI and a PET scan. Using the best features of both PET and MRI, this new hybrid technique creates some of the most incredibly detailed images of the inside of your body that are currently accessible.

Major advantages of a PET/MRI scan include:

• More precise diagnosis and treatment choices: aberrant findings missed by PET/CT in over 50% of examined individuals can be found by brain PET/MRI scans.
• Increased safety due to much lower radiation exposure: Patients get roughly 50% less radiation with PET/MRI scans than from PET/CT scans.
• The benefit of having two scans in one: PET/MRI doesn’t require separate consultations.

So, the answer to your question – ‘Can MRI and PET scans be done together?’ is yes!

Both procedures are a hundred percent safe and doctors constantly monitor your health.

How To Prepare For Your PET/MRI Scan?

• Consuming Food and Beverages

It might be best to avoid eating for 4 to 6 hours before most PET-MRI scans. However, you can drink water throughout this period.

• Claustrophobia

Certain patients have a feeling of constriction during a scan. If you anticipate feeling this way before your test, talk to the department staff. They can go above and beyond to ensure that you’re at ease and comprehend everything that’s happening. If you require medication to help you relax, your doctor can give it to you.

• Safety Measures

You fill out a safety checklist either before you leave for your appointment or upon arriving. This entails any surgeries you’ve had, any metal implants you may have, or any additional metals in your body.

Do not worry!

You will be guided throughout the procedure.

Understanding MRI and PET Scans

MRI employs magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of organs and tissues. Conversely, PET scans involve the injection of a radioactive tracer to detect metabolic or biochemical activity, identifying issues such as tumors.

Comparison of MRI and PET Scans

• Functionality: MRI provides detailed anatomical images, whereas PET focuses on metabolic activity and function.
• Usage: Doctors use MRI scans to get a clear picture of anatomical structures and diagnose structural abnormalities. PET scans are used to monitor cellular function and to detect changes at the cellular level.
• Detail: MRI offers more detailed images of the type of tissue, whether it’s cancerous or healthy, while PET identifies the most active areas of metabolism which often correspond to disease sites.

Tips and Tricks for a Smooth Scan Experience

• Stay Relaxed: If you feel anxious about the scan, try some relaxation techniques.
• Follow All Instructions: Carefully listen and adhere to the technician’s instructions to ensure optimal results.
• Feel Free to Inquire: If you have any questions before the procedure, do not hesitate to ask your doctor or technician.

Scheduling MRI and PET Scans on the Same Day

Feasibility: Yes, it is entirely possible to schedule and complete both an MRI and a PET scan on the same day. Many medical facilities offer back-to-back scheduling for such procedures.

Benefits:

• Convenience: Reduces the need for multiple hospital visits.
• Efficiency: Saves time for patients, which is particularly beneficial for those traveling from out of town.
• Streamlined Diagnostics: Allows for quicker diagnostic results, which can accelerate the treatment planning process.

Considerations for Same-Day Scans

Timing: Ensure there is enough time between each scan to prepare. For instance, PET scans often require patients to rest in a quiet room for about an hour before the scan to allow the radioactive tracer to distribute properly in the body.

Preparation: Different preparations are required for each scan:

• MRI: Remove all metal, follow fasting instructions if needed, and inform your technician if you have any implants or pacemakers.
• PET: Typically requires fasting for a few hours before the scan. You must also avoid strenuous activity for at least 24 hours prior to the scan.

Physical and Mental Fatigue: Undergoing multiple scans can be tiring. Plan to have someone accompany you if you think you’ll need support.

Walk-In Options

For those seeking immediate services, we offer walk-in appointments. Visit our center, and our team will strive to accommodate your MRI scan needs promptly.

Locations Near You

• Sector 20
• Sector 32
• Sector 16
• Sector 11
• Sector 19
• Sector 82, Mohali
• Sector 74, Mohali
• Sector 63, Mohali
• Kharar
• Zirakpur

Take charge of your health by scheduling your MRI scan with us. Experience the convenience of having a premier imaging center near you in Chandigarh. Your well-being is our priority, and we are committed to providing you with a seamless and comfortable diagnostic experience.

For more information or to schedule a PET Scan in Chandigarh, contact us at 8699572364. You can also follow us on social media to stay updated:

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FAQs about MRI and PET Scan in Chandigarh

How safe are MRI and PET scans?

Both MRI and PET scans are generally safe procedures. MRIs do not involve radiation, making them a preferable option for many. While PET scans do include a minimal amount of radioactive exposure, the level is generally considered safe for the vast majority of patients, including those undergoing multiple scans for ongoing monitoring.

How long does it take to perform a combined PET/MRI scan?

The length of a combined PET/MRI scan can vary significantly based on what needs examination. Typically, the procedure can last from about 30 minutes to two hours. The exact duration will depend on the specifics of the diagnostic needs, such as whether multiple areas need imaging or if detailed functional analysis is required.

Can anyone undergo a PET/MRI scan?

Most individuals can undergo a PET/MRI scan. However, certain conditions, such as having specific types of implants, pacemakers, or metal fragments, might exclude some patients from MRI procedures. It is crucial to consult with your physician to determine your suitability for a PET/MRI scan based on your medical history and current health status.

Do I need a referral to get a PET/MRI scan?

Yes, a referral from a specialist or your primary care physician is typically required to undergo a PET/MRI scan. This referral ensures that the scan is medically necessary and allows for proper coordination of your care, facilitating the best possible outcomes from the diagnostic process.

To arrange for a PET/MRI scan in Chandigarh, please contact us at 8699572364. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you with any questions you have and help guide you through the process to ensure you receive the highest standard of care.

Need MRI and PET scans in Chandigarh? Get both done on the same day! Call us at 8699572364 to book your scans quickly and easily. Learn more about how we can help you!

Conclusion:

We hope that the answer to ‘Can MRI and PET scans be done together?’ is now clear. Together, they allow for more precise localization of abnormalities, better detection of diseases, and improved monitoring of treatment response, particularly in oncology, neurology, and cardiology. This hybrid imaging technique enhances diagnostic accuracy while minimising the need for multiple separate scans, leading to more efficient and comprehensive patient care.