An overview of PET SCANNING and patient & staff SAFETY ISSUES.

A PET CT uses x-rays and radionucleotide combined with a pharmaceutical to help reveal the metabolic or biochemical function of tissues or organs. It is an effective and highly sensitive way to detect a variety of conditions including cancer, heart disease and brain disorders. The length of the scanner and scan itself, in combination with the radiation dose can present challenges both the patient and staff. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]