Scan 4 Health Diagnostics brings advanced cancer and liver imaging together with the PET-CT Scan with Triple Phase CT Abdomen (FDG), an integrated and powerful test designed to address some of the most complex diagnostic questions in oncology and hepatology. By combining the sensitivity of whole-body PET-CT, which detects metabolic activity with FDG (fluorodeoxyglucose), and the anatomical and dynamic detail provided by a triple-phase CT of the abdomen, this scan offers unparalleled diagnostic confidence—especially in evaluating liver tumors, metastases, and abdominal cancers.

Proper preparation is the key to image accuracy and safety:

• Diet: Adopt a low-carbohydrate, high-protein diet for the 24 hours prior. Avoid sugars, starchy foods, bread, rice, potatoes, sweets, or fruit. Opt for lean proteins and non-starchy vegetables.
• Fasting: Do not eat or drink (except for plain water) for at least 6 hours before the scan. Water is encouraged to help with tracer distribution and kidney protection.
• Medications: Continue regular medications unless told otherwise. People with diabetes will need individualized guidance—usually, a small, light meal is permitted 4–6 hours prior, with adjustments to morning diabetic medication. Do not take insulin before arriving unless instructed.
• Tests and Reports: Bring your latest urea and creatinine results (typically within 2 weeks), as they are required when intravenous contrast is used.
• Prior Imaging: Carry any recent PET/CT, CT, MRI, or key medical documents for reference.
• Clothing/Valuables: Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing and avoid jewelry. All metallic objects must be removed before scanning.
• Activity: Avoid vigorous exercise, caffeine, alcohol, or smoking for 24 hours before the test, as physical activity can alter tracer uptake and impact images.
• Hydration: Drink water in the morning before the test (unless otherwise directed) to facilitate contrast and tracer elimination after the procedure.
• Pregnancy/Breastfeeding: Inform the center if you are or may be pregnant or breastfeeding.

This hybrid scan offers a “best of both worlds” approach—whole-body PET-CT imaging with FDG to assess tissue metabolic activity, and a dedicated, dynamic triple-phase CT of the upper abdomen, focusing mainly on the liver. The triple phase CT acquires images at three crucial time points after IV contrast: arterial, portal venous, and delayed phases. This helps distinguish benign from malignant lesions, detect small tumors or metastases, differentiate among types of liver growths, and assess their blood supply, all of which are vital for treatment planning.

During the procedure:

• An IV line is placed for both the FDG tracer (for PET imaging) and the CT contrast.
• After tracer injection, you will rest in a calm, dimly lit room for 60–90 minutes while the FDG circulates.
• The PET-CT scan is performed first, covering the whole body from head to thigh.
• This is immediately followed by a series of CT scans of the abdomen (without and in three contrast phases), highlighting the structure and function of the liver, pancreas, and kidneys, as well as the adjacent gastrointestinal and vascular anatomy.

The combined scan is especially valuable for:

• Characterizing and staging primary liver tumors (such as hepatocellular carcinoma) or metastases from other cancers.
• Evaluating known or suspected abdominal and pelvic cancers.
• Monitoring response to treatment or post-surgical recurrence.
• Providing functional “hot spot” mapping and anatomical confirmation in a single appointment reducing delays in care.

Book your PET-CT Scan with Triple Phase CT Abdomen (FDG) at Scan 4 Health Diagnostics for advanced, streamlined, and comprehensive cancer and liver evaluation—empowering treatment decisions with the best in imaging science.