Serving Patients through the Navicent Health PET/CT Center
Radiology Associates of Macon utilizes advanced, state-of-the-art PET and CT technology through the Navicent Health PET/CT Center. Our specialty-trained, board-certified radiologists provide world-class imaging services to patients and physicians throughout Central Georgia and the surrounding regions.
PET/CT Scan Technology
A PET/CT scan, or Positron Emission Tomography-Computed Tomography, is an advanced imaging procedure used to identify hard-to-detect diseases and conditions, including:
- Cancer
- Endocrine disorders
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Heart disease
- Neurological disorders
- Additional abnormalities
PET and CT Scan Capabilities, Combined
By combining PET and CT technology, doctors can study the function of a patient on a cellular level (the PET component) through 3D imaging (the CT component).
A PET scan captures the body’s chemical activity, allowing doctors to locate any functional abnormalities. Images from a PET scan differ from those produced by a CT scan or MRI. They help your doctor form a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan based on their findings.
For a PET scan, patients receive a radioactive tracer that is absorbed by specific organs and tissues. The PET scanner then picks up the tracers to show your radiologist how the organs and tissues are currently working.
Learn more about our PET/CT scan services
Benefits and Risks of a PET/CT Scan
Radiologists rely on a PET/CT scan to detect disease or cancer-causing malfunctions in their earliest stages. Doctors can identify cancer with more accuracy thanks to a PET/CT scan, benefitting your timeline for treatment and recovery immensely. PET/CT scans also guide physicians through the treatment process as they track the patient’s cellular responses.
There are minimal risks associated with a PET/CT scan since radiation exposure is kept as low as reasonably achievable.
Precaution is needed for a PET/CT scan if a patient is:
- Pregnant
- Breastfeeding
- Claustrophobic
To learn more about our PET/CT Center and scanning capabilities, please call 478-633-4738
How to Prepare for Your PET Scan
If you are anticipating a PET/CT scan with Radiology Associates of Macon, you can expect a thorough yet easy procedure.
- Arrive at your appointment early to register and discuss any concerns with your technologist.
- Please inform your tech if you may be pregnant or are breastfeeding.
- Drink plenty of water.
- Do not eat anything (including gum, mints, or cough drops) in the 6-hour window leading up to your appointment.
- Keep exercise light in the 48-hour window leading up to your appointment.
- Take any prescribed medication at your regular schedule unless instructed otherwise.
What to bring to your appointment:
- List of medications you take, including non-prescription medications and supplements.
- Insurance cards and a photo ID.
- Medical history, including whether you may be pregnant or are currently breastfeeding.
Referrals to Radiology Associates of Macon
If you require a PET/CT scan, ask to be referred to Radiology Associates of Macon and the PET/CT Center, Navicent Health. We can provide same-day physician-to-physician consultations and reports.
PET/CT Center, Navicent Health
Radiology Associates of Macon offers PET/CT exams in Macon at:
PET/CT Center, Navicent Health
800 First Street
Suite 170
Macon, GA 31201
Phone: 478-633-4738
The PET/CT Center, Navicent Health is a joint venture between Radiology Associates of Macon and Navicent Health. Visit the PET/CT Center’s webpage to learn more.
