What Is a PET Scan? Complete Guide to Purpose, Cost, and Safety

Modern diagnostic imaging has revolutionized the way doctors detect and monitor diseases. Among these advanced imaging techniques, the PET scan (Positron Emission Tomography) stands out for its accuracy in identifying cancers, neurological conditions, and heart diseases at early stages.

But what is a PET scan, how does it differ from MRI or CT, and what should patients expect before undergoing the test? This comprehensive article by Sasha HealthCare answers all your questions about PET scan technology, cost, and safety.

What Is a PET Scan?

A PET scan, or Positron Emission Tomography scan, is an advanced imaging test that helps doctors observe how organs and tissues are functioning inside the body. Unlike CT or MRI, which show structural images, PET scans show metabolic activity — meaning how cells are working in real time.

During the procedure, a small amount of radioactive tracer (usually glucose combined with a safe radioactive isotope) is injected into the patient’s bloodstream. Cancer cells absorb this tracer more quickly than normal cells, allowing doctors to see active disease areas clearly on the scan.

This makes PET scans extremely valuable in detecting cancer, brain disorders, and heart disease, even before physical symptoms appear.

What Is PET Scan Test Used For?

The PET scan test is primarily used for three major purposes in medical diagnostics:

1. Cancer Detection and Monitoring
   PET scans are one of the most reliable tools for identifying cancerous growths and checking whether cancer has spread to other parts of the body. They are also used to evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing cancer treatment.
2. Heart Disease Evaluation
   PET scans can show how well blood is flowing to the heart and help detect areas of decreased blood flow, often caused by coronary artery disease.
3. Brain Disorders and Neurology
   In neurology, PET scans help diagnose Alzheimer’s disease, epilepsy, and other brain abnormalities by showing patterns of brain activity and metabolism.

This makes PET scanning a crucial diagnostic tool across multiple medical fields, from oncology to cardiology and neurology.

What Is a CT PET Scan Used For?

A CT PET scan combines two powerful imaging technologies — Computed Tomography (CT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) — into one procedure.

While the CT scan provides detailed anatomical images of structures inside the body, the PET scan adds metabolic and functional information. When combined, they deliver a comprehensive view that helps doctors pinpoint the exact location and activity of abnormal cells.

CT PET scans are most commonly used to:

• Detect and stage cancers.
• Identify whether a tumor is benign or malignant.
• Monitor response to chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
• Evaluate brain and heart conditions with greater accuracy.

This hybrid technology is now a standard in major hospitals and imaging centers for precise diagnosis and treatment planning.

Is a PET Scan Better Than an MRI?

Patients often wonder, “Is a PET scan better than an MRI?” The answer depends on what the doctor is trying to diagnose.

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) shows detailed images of organs, muscles, and tissues. It’s best for brain, spinal cord, and joint imaging.
• PET scans, on the other hand, show how tissues and organs function, making them ideal for detecting cancer or metabolic disorders.

In some cases, doctors use both PET and MRI together (known as PET-MRI) to combine the strengths of both methods — structure and function — for the most accurate diagnosis possible.

How Does a PET Scan Work?

The science behind PET scanning is both fascinating and precise:

1. Tracer Injection – The patient receives an injection of a radioactive tracer, which travels through the bloodstream.
2. Cell Absorption – Active cells, such as cancer cells, absorb more of the tracer.
3. Imaging – The PET scanner detects the radiation emitted by the tracer and creates detailed 3D images.
4. Analysis – Radiologists interpret these images to detect abnormalities in organ function.

This real-time insight helps doctors not only locate disease but also assess how it behaves at a cellular level.

PET Scan Cost

The PET scan cost in India and UAE varies depending on the hospital, location, and the type of scan performed. On average:

• Whole-body PET scan: ₹20,000 – ₹30,000 (India)
• PET-CT scan: ₹25,000 – ₹40,000
• Cardiac PET scan: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000

In the UAE, costs may range between AED 2,500 – AED 4,500 per scan.

At Sasha HealthCare, we provide advanced PET and PET-CT scan systems — both new and refurbished — at highly competitive prices, making this critical technology more accessible to hospitals and diagnostic centers.

Is PET Scan Harmful?

A common concern among patients is, “Is PET scan harmful?” The answer is reassuring — PET scans are safe for most people.

The radioactive tracer used emits a very small amount of radiation, similar to or less than what you’d receive from other imaging tests like CT scans. The tracer naturally leaves the body within 24 hours through urine or stool.

However, PET scans are not recommended for pregnant women unless absolutely necessary. Patients are also advised to drink plenty of fluids post-scan to help flush the tracer from the body.

Overall, PET scans have an excellent safety record and provide far more benefits than risks when used appropriately.

Advantages of PET Scans

PET scanning offers several unique advantages compared to other imaging methods:

• Detects diseases at a cellular and metabolic level before physical changes occur.
• Accurate tumor detection and treatment response evaluation.
• Can identify recurrence of cancer earlier than MRI or CT.
• Helps in personalized treatment planning for oncology patients.
• Non-invasive and relatively quick procedure.

These advantages make PET scans one of the most valuable tools in modern diagnostic medicine.

PET Scan Procedure: Step-by-Step

Here’s what to expect when undergoing a PET scan:

1. Preparation: You’ll be asked to avoid eating for several hours before the test.
2. Tracer Injection: A small dose of radioactive tracer is injected.
3. Waiting Period: You’ll rest for 30–60 minutes while the tracer circulates.
4. Imaging: You’ll lie on a table that slides into the PET scanner. The scan takes about 20–30 minutes.
5. Completion: You can resume normal activities soon after the procedure.

PET Scans at Sasha HealthCare

At Sasha HealthCare, we specialize in supplying high-quality refurbished PET and PET-CT scan machines from leading global brands like GE, Siemens, Philips, and Toshiba.

We offer:

• Installation and maintenance support.
• Affordable prices for new and pre-owned systems.
• Calibration and after-sales service.
• Custom setup for hospitals and diagnostic centers.

With years of experience in the medical imaging field, Sasha HealthCare is committed to helping healthcare facilities deliver accurate, early, and life-saving diagnoses using world-class PET scan technology.