Press ESC to close

PET CT Scan Explained

Written By:

Dr. Preeti Singh

Consultant – Nuclear Medicine & PET CT

Sohana Hospital, Mohali.

Experience: 15+ Years

Speciality: Nuclear Medicine & PET CT

Published: 29/06/2026

Last Updated: 23/06/2026

With the increasing cancer, and heart diseases, the number of tests required for the diagnosis of these are also increasing, hence it is necessary to know about the available tests and pet CT scan in panchkula. A PET CT Scan is used for detecting tumors, monitoring the effectiveness of chemotherapy or radiation,and evaluating blood flow. Hence the following blog explains the best pet scan in Chandigarh. What all happens under a PET CT Scan, and how can Sohana Hospital help you complete a PET CT Scan.

What is PET CT Scan?

PET CT Scan combines a Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT) into one procedure. A PET scan involves detecting abnormal cellular activity using a safe radioactive tracer, while a CT Scan creates anatomical map of the organ, making the structure and function of the organ clear to the doctor. Doctors use it for cancer detection, evaluation of blood flow through the heart, and get an accurate measure of the problem. 

Who needs a PET CT Scan?

A PET CT Scan takes up about 2-3 hours of testing, and is primarily ordered while detecting cancer, or severe heart conditions. All conditions where early diseased cells determine how far an illness has spread, or how a patient is responding to the prescribed treatment. Doctors generally prescribe pet CT scan in Chandigarh for the following reasons:- 

  • Cancer Care
  • Heart Disease
  • Infections and Inflammation
  • Brain PET scan
  • Real-time Metabolic Information 

What benefits does Sohana Hospital provide me with PET CT Scan?

Sohana Hospital is Equipped With Regions Most Advanced PET-CT Scanner & GAMMA Machine to Provide Accurate & Confident Findings For The Perfect Diagnosis. The advanced technology enables faster and accurate detection of tumors. Sohana Hospital comes with different features like:- 

  • Report Available in 24 hours
  • Ease in Booking Appointment
  • Best & Affordable Cost for PET Scan in Chandigarh.
  • 24×7 Consultation & Support by Cancer Specialists
  • Helps Detect Staging for Accurate Treatment Planning

Frequently Asked questions 

What to avoid 24 hours before a PET CT scan?

All kinds of strenuous exercise and/or physical activity are to be avoided for 24 hours prior to the scan. All caffeine or de-caffieinated drinks are to be avoided before the scan, and staying hydrated before the test is advised. 

Does Sohana Hospital provide a PET CTScan?

Sohana Hospital gives a whole PET CT Scan and many other tests required for a proper diagnosis of the disease.  PET systems have sensitive detector panels to capture gamma ray emissions from inside the body and use software to plot to triangulate the source of the emissions, creating 3-D computed tomography images of the tracer concentrations within the body. 

How many hours is a PET CT scan?

A PET CT Scan usually takes about 2-3 hours in general. The time spent lying on the machine takes only about 15 to 30 minutes. The majority of the time is spent preparing and waiting for your body to absorb the radioactive tracer. 

What can I eat for breakfast before a PET scan?

A light, high-protein, and zero-carb breakfast is advised for the morning of the PET CT Scan. The other option is to fast the entire morning itself. Acceptable foods involve eggs, unsweetened greek yogurt, tofu or paneer. 

How much water should I drink before a PET scan?

About 4 cups to a litre of water is enough for the day before the scan. On the day of, it is advised to not have anything except plain water. Drink an additional 3 to 4 glasses (about 500 mL to 1 liter) of water 1 to 2 hours before you arrive. 

Medically Reviewed By:

Dr. Preeti Singh

Director Nuclear Medicine & PET CT

Sohana Hospital, Mohali.

Last Updated: 23/06/2026

Credentials of the Author:

-DRM & DMB Nuclear Medicine & PET CT

-12+ Years of Clinical Experience

-Specialist in Nuclear Medicine & PET CT