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What is a PET-CT Scan


PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography and Computed Tomography) is an advanced imaging scan that shows how your organs and tissues are functioning.

It combines two scans in one:

  • PET shows how your body is functioning at a cellular level
  • CT provides detailed images of your body’s structure

This provides important information about many conditions and helps your doctor to plan your treatment effectively.

 

We offer PET-CT
at the following clinics...

Molecular Imaging & Therapy

4 Murray Place
Camberley
Hastings 4120

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Canopy Imaging Palmerston North

Aorangi Specialist Centre
175 Grey Street
Palmerston North 4410

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How does a PET-CT scan work?

Before your scan, a small amount of a radioactive tracer (most commonly 18F-FDG) is injected into your bloodstream.

This tracer behaves like sugar and collects in areas of your body where cells are more active. The scanner detects these areas and creates detailed images.

This allows us to see how different parts of your body are functioning and identify potential problems early. 
CP21899 WebRes

What is a PET-CT scan used for?

A PET-CT scan is commonly used to:

  • Detect and monitor cancer
  • Check how well treatment is working
  • Identify areas of abnormal activity in the body
     

What are the benefits?

  • Provides both functional and structural information in one scan
  • Helps detect disease earlier than some other imaging methods
  • Supports accurate diagnosis and treatment planning
  • Non-invasive and generally well tolerated

Are there any risks or side effects?

The tracer used for your scan is safe and very unlikely to cause any side effects. It will not make you feel drowsy, and you can return to your usual daily activities, including driving.

In some cases, a contrast injection may also be given through a vein in your arm during the CT scan. This can cause a brief warm or flushed feeling, which is normal.

Please let us know before your appointment if you:

  • Have had a reaction to contrast in the past
  • Have kidney disease

The amount of radiation used is low, and the benefits of the scan generally outweigh any risks. 

Preparing for your PET-CT scan

You will need to follow specific instructions, which will depend on the type of scan you will have. All instructions will be on your appointment letter, please read it carefully.

These may include:

  • Wearing loose, comfortable clothing without metal
  • Avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours before your scan for example running, cycling, horse-riding or gym exercise
  • You do need to be able to lie flat for this scan. Please inform us if you do not think you can manage this or if you are claustrophobic

It's important to follow your instructions carefully to ensure the best possible results.

What will happen on the day of the scan?

Please arrive on time for your appointment, as the tracer used in your scan has a short shelf life and is specially prepared for you.

When you arrive, one of our technologists will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have.

The process typically includes:

  • You will be taken to a preparation room where a small amount of radioactive tracer will be injected into your arm
  • You will then relax quietly in a recliner chair for around 60 minutes while the tracer is absorbed
  • After this, you will be taken into the scanning room and asked to lie on your back on the scanner
  • In some cases, you may receive an additional injection of X-ray contrast during the CT scan
  • The scan itself usually takes around 20 minutes

What happens after my scan?

You will be able to leave the clinic about 20 minutes after the scan. You can eat and and drink as normal.

You may go about your usual activities, but we recommend avoiding close contact with pregnant women and young children for around six hours after your scan. This is to minimise any unnecessary exposure to radiation.

It’s also important to drink plenty of fluids for the rest of the day and to empty your bladder regularly, as this helps your body clear the tracer.

FAQs

Canopy Imaging offers PET-CT scans in Hawke’s Bay, with services available in Palmerston North from 10 August 2026.

Yes, PET-CT scans are considered safe. The tracer used is a small amount and unlikely to cause side effects. The benefits of the scan generally outweigh any risks.

A PET-CT scan shows how your organs and tissues are functioning, as well as their structure. It helps detect disease, monitor treatment, and identify changes in the body.

Yes. You will receive instructions before your appointment, which may include avoiding exercise and following specific dietary guidelines. It’s important to follow these carefully.

Yes, you can drive and return to your normal activities after your scan. The tracer does not make you drowsy.

After your scan, a specialist will review your images and prepare a report. This report will be sent to your referring doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

If you have a further appointment with your referrer, please let us know the date when you attend your scan.

The full appointment usually takes approximately 2 hours. This includes preparation time and a rest period after the tracer injection. The scan itself typically takes about 20 minutes.

Please contact us as soon as possible if you are unable to attend. The tracer used for your scan is specially prepared and has a short shelf life.

You are welcome to bring a friend or family member to your appointment. They can stay with you while we explain the procedure.

When it is time to prepare for your scan, we will take you to a preparation room. At this point, we will ask your support person to either wait in the waiting area or leave the clinic. We will let them know when you are ready to be picked up.

If you require an essential carer or interpreter, they are welcome to stay with you.